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In a group of 27 female workers employed on the manual "moulding" of plywood panels exposure to factors of biomechanical overload for the upper limbs was assessed and an anamnestic and clinical examination was made in order to clarify the occurrence of a series of WMSDs type diseases and disorders. Data are reported on the risk factors, frequency of action (range: right limb-->14.5 divided by 22.0 actions/min,-->5.5 divided by 11.0 actions/min), use of strength (right limb-->Borg 3.7-4.9; left limb-->Borg 3.0-3.8), incongruous postures and movements, complementary factors, and on the lack of recovery pauses (4 hours in an 8-hour shift). The OCRA indices were: single press: right limb-->146-208; left limb-->61-85; multi press: right limb-->4.8-7.1; left limb-->1.1-2.3. The EPM method showed that the factors producing greatest overloading were excessive use of strength, incongruous postures and movements (specially of wrist, hand and elbow) and of complementary factors like constant compression of the palm of the right hand, tearing movements and the use of gloves. Clinical examination according to EPM showed that tendon disorders (69% of which 34% were carpal tunnel syndrome) were the most frequent disorders followed by epicondylosis (23%); disorders of the shoulder were less frequent (8%). In view of the clear significance of the statistical data of these disorders which were proved to be caused by current work organization (Fisher test was highly significant for 65% and significant for 75% of the disorders), further diagnostic and therapeutic investigations for each single female worker are necessary along with specific interventions to improve working conditions. Among the possible prevention measures the need is stressed for improvements on tools, on job organization, and for an adequate information and training program for all workers.

Nursing personnel and physical therapists refer to the lifting and moving of patients as the most important determinant of occupationally related low-back pain. This study was conducted in 12 nurses and 12 patients, to compare three methods of transferring patients from bed to wheelchair; (I) manual lifting, (II) an assistive device-a walking belt (with both one- and two-person transfers) and (III) a mechanical hoist. After completion of a given transfer, nurses were asked to rate the physical stress and how secure they felt the method was. Patients were asked to rate how secure and comfortable they felt. We also recorded the time required to make each transfer. The walking belt two persons had the most favourable ratings (the least stressful and most secure and comfortable), however transfers with this method took longer than those with the manual methods (although less than transfers with the hoist). Both nurses and patients rated one-person manual lifting as most stressful and least secure. Two-person transfer methods were preferred to the corresponding one-person methods. The hoist was the least suitable transfer method in view of the corresponding one-person methods. The hoist was the least suitable transfer method in view of the considerable physical stresses to the nurses, perceived lack of safety, discomfort for the patients and time involved.