Valutazione del rischio da sovraccarico biomeccanico degli arti superiori nei processi di caseificazione industriale

Muscoloskeletal disorders affecting back, neck and upper limbs are one the most relevant occupational deseases in European Union. They are constantly increasing in all countries and lead to a significative economic impact on social and enterprises costs. The most important risk factors are associated to work activity and organization, such as repetitive movements, painful/tiring positions, lack of recovery time. These conditions occur frequently in all economic sectors, partucularly in manufacturing, construction and agriculture. Work activities in cheese industry may lead to a significant biomechanical risk due to prolonged awkward postures, repetitive movements of upper limbs, moving heavy loads, plus also unfavourable environmental conditions.
This study analyses the risk of upper limbs muscoloskeletal disorders for workers involved in pecorino romano production. The OCRA method was applied to identify the most critical activities and suggest some ergonomic measures.