Discussion paper

Scand J Work Environ Health 2018;44(3):323-329    pdf

https://doi.org/10.5271/sjweh.3718 | Published online: 27 Feb 2018, Issue date: 01 May 2018

Scientific basis of ISO standards on biomechanical risk factors

by Armstrong TJ, Burdorf A, Descatha A, Farioli A, Graf M, Horie S, Marras WS, Potvin JR, Rempel D, Spatari G, Takala E-P, Verbeek J, Violante FS

Among other purposes, companies and regulatory agencies from around the world often adopt International Standard Organization (ISO) standards to determine acceptable practices, equipment and criteria for preventing occupational injuries and illnesses. ISO standards are based on a consensus among individuals who participate in the process. This discussion paper examines the scientific process for the development of several ISO standards on biomechanical factors, comparing it with processes used by other professional organizations, including scientific committees working on the development of clinical guidelines. While the ISO process has value, it also has clear limitations when it comes to developing occupational health and safety standards that should be based on scientific principles.

This article refers to the following texts of the Journal: 2010;36(1):3-24  2016;42(4):280-290
The following articles refer to this text: 2018;44(4):436-438; 2018;44(4):439-440; 2018;44(5):441-442