ABSTRACT
This chapter presents a practice-based method of describing and evaluating the working conditions which prevail in the manual handling of loads. This simple method is geared to the recognition and removal of bottlenecks. Because it only covers the major activity indicators, it is called the key indicator method. This method was developed and tested from 1996 to 2001 in connection with the implementation of the European Union (EU) framework and individual directives on occupational safety and health in German national law. It consists of two independent, but formally adaptable parts for lifting, holding, and carrying, and for pulling and pushing. The method was drawn up in the Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health in close collaboration with the Committee of the Laender for Occupational Safety and Health (Länderausschuss für Arbeitsschutz und Sicherheitstechnik—LASI) with the involvement of numerous companies, scientists, accident insurance bodies, and trade unions. The method can be used only to assess risks with the aim of preventing work-related health risks from the manual handling of loads. In the 6 years since its first publication, this method has enjoyed a wide acceptance among possible users and a correspondingly broad application in Germany.
