Ergonomic Posture & Task Analysis
Posture problems are often symptoms of task design. A worker may bend because the work is too low, reach because materials are too far away, rotate because the process is arranged to one side, or hold the arms elevated because the tool or work surface is poorly positioned.
Ergo Global’s posture and task analysis looks at the working position in context. We identify awkward, sustained or repetitive postures, determine what in the task is creating them and recommend changes that improve the fit between the person and the work.
What We Analyse
neck and trunk flexion, extension and rotation;
shoulder elevation and unsupported arm positions;
wrist and forearm posture;
kneeling, squatting and lower-limb posture;
standing and static loading;
reach distance and work height;
movement frequency and task repetition;
tool, control and material location;
task sequence and work organisation.
Static and Dynamic Work
Not every risky posture looks dramatic. Holding a moderate position for a long period can create a different kind of demand from a short, highly awkward movement. We therefore consider duration and repetition as well as the angle of the body.
Dynamic tasks can also shift exposure between body regions. A change that improves the shoulder may increase trunk bending, so recommendations must be assessed across the whole task.
When RULA or REBA Helps
Where a structured posture score adds value, RULA or REBA may be used. RULA is often appropriate for upper-limb, neck and trunk exposure. REBA considers the whole body and can be better suited to dynamic tasks. These tools support the analysis; they do not replace understanding the workflow.
Task Analysis Goes Beyond Posture
A posture can only be improved sustainably if the task allows it. We therefore look at workstation dimensions, reach zones, material placement, equipment, pace, work sequence, force and opportunities for recovery. The goal is to change the conditions that create the posture rather than simply telling the worker to ‘stand correctly’.
Typical Recommendations
change work surface height;
bring materials or controls into a better reach zone;
provide support or adjustability;
modify tool selection or tool position;
change the orientation of the worker to the process;
reduce sustained or overhead work;
alter task sequence or rotation;
introduce mechanical assistance;
provide targeted education after the physical task has been improved.
Part of a Wider Ergonomic Assessment
If the task also involves lifting, force, high repetition or multiple exposures, posture analysis may form one part of a wider ergonomic risk assessment.
Discuss a Posture or Task Analysis
If a worker or team is reporting discomfort, or a process appears to require awkward or sustained positions, share the task and site details with us. We can determine whether posture analysis, RULA, REBA or a wider assessment is the right approach.
