Background and purpose

In 2010 a research and development (R&D) project started after an initiative from a large global company. They needed a free, systematic musculoskeletal disorder (MSD) risk assessment and management tool, focused on manual handling. The development of the RAMP tool (Risk Assessment and Management tool for Manual Handling – Proactively) was therefore initiated, and the progress has since then been presented at several NES-conferences. The objective of this paper is to present the result of this 7 year R&D project: the digitalized RAMP tool and  courses on the tool.

Methodology

A participative methodology in close co-operation between researchers and practitioners at companies has been used. The participating companies and the methodology, including the base for the development, ranging from scientific papers to user feedback, and evaluations will be described at NES 2017.

Results

The R&D project has resulted in the freely accessible RAMP tool consisting of four parts: RAMP I, RAMP II, the Action module and the Results module. A broad range of MSD risks are assessed, the results from assessments are visualized in a novel way and risk reducing actions for risk management are supported. The digitalised version has recently been released. Further, three massive open online courses (MOOCs) for professionals on the RAMP tool are under development, and will also be presented.

Discussion

The discussion focuses on the need of and dissemination of freely accessible methods such as RAMP, and how to enable users to acquire sufficient knowledge to use them. 

Conclusions

In conclusion: The project has resulted in a new tool for MSD risk management in manual handling jobs, the RAMP tool. Evaluations of the tool show that it is regarded as usable from different usability aspects. It is argued that the upcoming online MOCCs may contribute to provide adequate knowledge for proper use of the tool.

Keywords. musculoskeletal disorders, risk assessment, risk reducing measures, risk communication, digital tool.