Investigative study and sensitivity analysis of Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA)

Abstract The paper aims primarily to study the sensitivity of Rapid entire body assessment (REBA) and identification of insensitive and sensitive posture zones. The investigative study, and sensitivity analysis of REBA offer deeper insights into the methodology used for the assessment of posture. Full factorial design is divided into parts using a forward approach to access the sensitivity. One parameter is varied keeping other parameters constant to understand its effect on the output score. Combinations of posture where no change was observed were identified. Posture scores were also noted involving sudden jumps. Regression analysis was performed to identify relative importance or weightage of the body and other variables in estimating the final REBA score. The justification of the REBA methodology available in the existing literature is very limited. This paper also demonstrates the need for understanding of REBA method among the researchers. With this paper, ergonomic practitioners can be made aware of insensitive and sensitive zones in posture assessment. Originality This is the first paper that primarily aims to establish the sensitivity of REBA and identifying insensitive postures or problems in REBA assessment. Few research gaps are identified.