A preliminary mapping methodology for occupational hazards and biomechanical risk evaluation: presentation of a simple, computerized tool kit for ergonomic hazards identification and risk assessment

Introduction
During the last Congress of the International Ergonomics Association (IEA), Beijing, August 2009, an international group was founded with the task of developing a “toolkit for MSD prevention” under the IEA and in collaboration with the World Health Organization. The possible users of toolkits are: members of health and safety committees; health and safety representatives; line supervisors; foremen; workers; government representatives; health workers providing basic occupational health services; occupational health and safety specialists. The methodology has been applied in different situations of small and medium craftsmanship Italian enterprises: leather goods, food, technical dental work, production of artistic ceramics and stained glass, beekeeping activities .

Methods
According to the ISO standard 11228 series and the new Draft CD ISO 12259-2009: Application document guides for the potential user, our group developed a preliminary “mapping” methodology of occupational hazards in the craft industry, supported by software (Excel®, free download on: www.epmresearch.org).

Results
For the leather goods sector the application of this methodology has shown a risks of biomechanical overload and of chemical, both with need for an urgent intervention. Even in the food industry and beekeeping activities, risk of biomechanical overload and chemical agents (flour dust) are emerged. The biomechanical overload was also important in the activity of dental technician, with particular attention to repetitive movements of upper limbs. Even in the production of artistic ceramics and stained glass the main risks highlighted are both the biomechanical overloads and chemical hazards

Discussion
The proposed methodology, using specific key enters and quick assessment criteria, allows a simple ergonomics hazards identification and risk estimation to be made. It is thus possible to decide for which occupational hazards a more exhaustive risk assessment will be necessary and which occupational consultant should be involved (occupational physician, safety engineer, industrial hygienist, etc.).