Rapid Upper Limb Assessment(RULA)

History and Benefit of RULADeveloped by Dr. E. Nigel Corlett and Dr. Lynn McAtamney of University of Nottinghams Institute for Occupational ErgonomicsDeveloped to investigate the exposure of individual workers to risk factors associated with work-related upper limb disordersIt is straight forward and can be used with a minimum of training.

What is RULARULA is a quick survey method for use in ergonomic investigations of workplaces where MSDs are reported.RULA is a screening tool that assesses biomechanical and postural loading on the body.RULA focuses on the neck, trunk and upper limbs, and is ideal for sedentary workers e.g. computer workplaces.

What is RULA (cont.)RULA has been validated on groups of computer users and sewing machine operators.RULA is quick and easy to complete.RULA scores indicate the level of intervention required to reduce MSD risks.RULA compliments other ergonomic methods.

RULA Scoring ClassificationCLASS I (1 or 2)Posture is acceptable if it is not maintained or repeated for long periodsCLASS II (3 or 4)Further investigation is neededCLASS III (5 or 6)Further investigation and changes are required soonCLASS IV (6+)Investigate and change now

Interpretation of RULAGives a total job assessment that suggests directions for modifying body positions to reduce the possibility of hazardsDoes not provide exact Engineering controls or work activity changes.

How to Do a RULA EstimationRULA is a simple diagnostic tool that allows you to survey various tasks involving the upper limbs at work.Focuses on use of arms, wrists, position of the head, and the posture of the upper body.

RULA Estimation (cont.)ProcedureRecords the position of the upper limbs and the head, trunk and legs with two separate number codes.The codes are entered into the relevant boxes.An initial score is found in the appropriate tables, A and B.The score is modified according to the use of the limbs.

RULA Estimation (cont.)The final A and B scores are calculated.Using the final scores a Grand Score, using table C, is determined.

Upper Arm

Upper ArmsAdd 1 if shoulder is raisedAdd 1 if upper arm is abductedSubtract 1 if leaning or supporting the weight of the arm.

Lower ArmAdd 1 if working across the midline of the body or out to the side.

Wrist

Wrist TwistMainly in handshake

Twisting away from handshake position.

Neck

Neck Twist Add 1 if neck is twisting

Neck Side-BendAdd 1 if neck is side-bending.

Trunk

Trunk TwistingAdd 1 if trunk is twisting.

Trunk Side-BendAdd 1 if trunk is side-bending.

Lower LimbsLegs and feet are well supported and in an evenly balanced posture (add 1).Legs and feet are not evenly balanced or supported (add 2).

Muscle Use ScoreRaise the score by 1 if the posture isMainly static, e.g. held for longer than 10 minutes.Repeated more than 4 times/minute.

Forces or Load Score

0No resistance or less than 4 lbs intermittent load or force14-20 lbs intermittent load or force24-20 lbs static or repeated load or force3More than 20 lbs static or repeated loads or forces. Shock or forces with rapid buildup.

Score Sheet

Upper ArmLower Arm WristWrist TwistPosture Score AMuscle UseForce /LoadScore ALook Up in Table C for Grand Score++=

Neck Trunk LegsPosture Score BMuscle UseForce / LoadScore B++=

Arms and Wrist Score

Upper ArmLower ArmWrist1234Wrist TwistWrist TwistWrist TwistWrist Twist12121212111222233322222333332323334421222333442222333443233334453123334455223334455323344455413444445523444445533444556651555556672566667773666777786177777889278888999399999999

Neck, Trunk, and Legs Score

Sheet1

TRUNK

123456

LegsLegsLegsLegsLegsLegs

Neck121212121212

1121223344444

2122234455555

3222334455566

4232334455666

5344445566666

Sheet2

Sheet3

RULA Estimation

RULA Estimation (cont.)