Modifying the Revised NIOSH Lifting Equation using Anthropometric Variables to Calculate Horizontal and Vertical Multipliers

Abstract

The Revised NIOSH Lifting Equation is a work system assessment tool which often used in industrial world. The calculation result in the form of Recommended Weight Limit (RWL) and the Lifting Index (LI) become the basis for improving the work system carried out. RNLE is an application developed by NIOSH and uses American anthropometry as a constant in its calculations. Some researchers, especially in Asia, consider that the application is less suitable for Asia people who have anthropometric differences with Americans. The assessment carried out by the RNLE application is based on work activities carried out without considering the worker's body posture. In particular, the calculate of HM and VM in this application uses a constant related to anthropometry. RNLE uses the constants based on the average anthropometry of workers in calculation. The constant anthropometry used in the equation led to the results of the risk calculation that does not correspond to physical aspects of workers. It takes an equation that consider anthropometry workers to get the calculation of the value of the appropriate work risk. The study aims to propose equations that consider anthropometry factors to calculate the risk factor. The development of the equation with Python programming language allows further development in the field of information and communication technology. The results of the study shows that the average results of the RWL and LI calculation uses anthropometry data not equal to the RNLE, thus required new equation in order to resulting more objective risk value.