[Evaluation of the exposure to biomechanical overload of the upper limbs and clinical investigation in a female population employed in the manual loading of production lines in 2 ceramics factories].

The aim of this study was to assess the presence of an increased risk of biomechanical overload of the upper limbs in the ceramics industry, among workers manually loading production lines. The study focused on two factories: in the first, most of the work was performed manually, whilst in the second the manufacturing process had been almost entirely automated. A total of 46 female workers were examined in both factories, to check for the presence of any disorders of the shoulder, elbow and wrist, as well as for any signs of carpal tunnel medial nerve pain. Approximately two thirds of the workers had positive results of the examinations and went on to undergo 2nd level testing (physiatric examination, muscle tendon US, electromyography) to confirm the diagnosis. In both factories, an increased risk was detected in terms of intensity of exertion, frequency of actions and inadequate recovery times. The posture and movements analysis showed that each of the segments of the upper limbs studied were involved. In both factories, at least 3 out of every 4 workers tested positive for a disorder of at least one segment. Diagnoses were almost invariably confirmed by the 2nd level tests. The progressive automation of the ceramics industry over recent years does not seem therefore to have reduced the risk of biomechanical overload disorders in the upper limbs, at least in relation to those jobs which still feature manual tasks. In view of the social costs associated with such disorders, it would appear mandatory to pursue the investigation further, particularly focusing on those jobs (e.g. polishing, cutting, special shapes, etc.) which can be expected to feature manual tasks.