Protocol for the improvement of the ergonomics of manual tools and equipement presenting a musculoskeletal hazard Abstract There have been few studies of attempts to improve the ergonomics of hand tools in medium-sized companies in order to reduce the risk of musculoskeletal disorders. This document describes a case of hand-tool modification in an industrial pottery plant. The document describes how the application of a modification protocol drawing on both industrial design and ergonomics led to the design of simple and functional tools that do not expose workers to musculoskeletal risk factors. The extent to which this method can prevent musculoskeletal disorders, the integration of ergonomics into the design process, and the social context necessary for the implementation of the modification protocol are discussed. Produced Under this Project Scientific Reports Case study of the ergonomic improvement of tools capable of causing musculoskeletal injury Research Report: R-266 Scientific Publications Application of visual analog scales (VAS) for the comparative evaluation of tool and equipment designs and work methodsBeauchamp Y.Source : Computers and Industrial Engineering: An International Journal, vol. 37, no 1-2, 1999, p. 289-292Intégration des aspects ergonomiques et de la conception pour la modification d'outils présentant des risques d'atteintes musculosquelettiquesToulouse G., Beauchamp Y.Source : in Congrès de l’Association québécoise pour l’hygiène, la santé et la securité du travail / AQHSST, (21e : 28-30 avril , 1999 : Montréal, Canada), 1999, p. 29-37Organisation temporelle de l’activité et régulation de la charge musculo-squelettique : Application d’un modèle d’intervention basé sur les niveaux opérationnels et stratégiques de l’organisationToulouse G., Beauchamp Y., Brosseau M.Source : in Temps et travail : Actes du 33e Congrès de la Société d'ergonomie de langue française / SELF (33e : 16-18 septembre, 1998 : Paris, France), 1998 Additional Information Type: Project Number: 0097-0670 Status: Completed Year of completion: 2001 Research Field: OSH and Sustainable Prevention Work Environment Team: Georges Toulouse (IRSST)Yves Beauchamp (École de technologie supérieure)