What is RULA?

Rapid Upper Limb Assessment is a survey method developed for use in ergonomic investigations of workplaces where work-related upper limb disorders are reported. RULA is a screening tool that assesses biomechanical and postural loading on the whole body, with particular attention to the neck, trunk and upper limbs.

Reliability studies have been conducted using RULA on groups of VDU users and sewing machine operators. A RULA assessment requires little time to complete, and the scoring generates an action list indicating the level of intervention required to reduce the risks of injury due to physical loading on the operator. RULA is intended to be used as part of a broader ergonomic study.

The assessment works in two parts: Part A scores the arm and wrist postures (Table A), and Part B scores the neck, trunk and legs (Table B). Muscle use and force/load scores are added to each, and the two totals combine in Table C to give a grand score from 1 to 7 with one of four action levels.