Other

This section includes studies that are also within the scope of industry, but which cannot be included in any of the classification groups used.

Most of these studies were carried out in the past 17 years. The first one performed aimed to establish the QEC method action categories. To do this, several industry jobs were analysed using QEC and RULA, and then the results were compared [127]. RULA was also compared to other methods (OWAS and REBA) by analysing 301 worker postures in industries such as the electronics, steel, chemical and automotive industries, as well as in a hospital. OWAS and REBA ranked 21% of the postures in Categories 3 and 4, while RULA ranked 56% of them [122]. This method was also compared to seven others by performing an ergonomic assessment of 567 industrial tasks. The results were

shown to be different for the same work post depending on the method used. RULA determined a high risk for nearly 80% of the jobs [111].

Eswaramoorthi et al. [119] used RULA with CATIA V5 software to assess assembly line workers. This assessment led to changes in job design to reduce or eliminate waste, as these could cause an increase in the heavy physical burden on the worker. The method was also used in another assessment of this type, but in this case on a humanoid robot arm with similar postures to those adopted by a human. The goal was to assess the robot arm's configurations [112]. Related to the above, a method was developed allowing one to configure the manipulation of articulated robots which moved similarly to humans. RULA was used to analyse the coincidence between the robot and the human [110]. Continuing in the field of robotics, one study focused on the design and analysis of a system based on gesture control. The goal was to allow workers to control an industrial-type robot. The RULA [62] method was also used for its design.

Moreover, RULA was combined with other advanced tools to carry out new research. To improve industrial production, an ergonomic study was combined with virtual reality. The design of a cell was carried out to reduce worker fatigue [54]. Conversely, RULA was combined with Kinect to collect information on the movements made by workers during mounting and assembly tasks [72,103]. Likewise, an ergonomic assessment was performed using the DELMIA (Digital EnterpriseManufacturing Interactive Application) simulation tool for assembly tasks in the robotics industry. RULA determined the harmful postures and the necessary redesign of the work to improve them [85]. Finally, a system was developed using sensors placed on the workers' bodies. RULA was used by a computer in real time, displaying the results on a screen. When these were very harmful, acoustic and visual signals were initiated. It was concluded that this system, which showed the information to the worker, reduced the occurrence of MSD [101].

Rivero et al. [89] carried out an assessment of industrial and construction workers using RULA. They explained that increased productivity is closely linked to good worker ergonomics. Other authors also used it in conjunction with OSHA and the NIOSH equation. They concluded that rapid changes were required in 65% of the industrial tasks [84,94].

Baptista et al. [102] conducted three studies with three methods, including RULA. In total, 109 factory workers participated. The results showed that there were workers suffering from MSD, although no indications were presented. Finally, Yazdanirad et al. [61] also used three assessment methods to assess 210 people in three industries (the automotive, pharmaceutical and assembly industries). The results concluded that RULA was the most suitable method.

3.1.4. Water Supply; Sewerage, Waste Management and Remediation Activities

Table 6 presents a single study belonging to this category.


**Table 6.** Water supply; sewerage, waste management and remediation activities.

Cakit [128] conducted a study to analyse waste collection workers. A programme was used to assess the postures adopted during loading and unloading. In addition, the RULA and REBA methods were used. They concluded the need for urgent changes in the postures adopted.
