Physical Strength Assessment in Ergonomics

This publication concerns human physical strength testing. Its purpose is not to recommend any particular type of testing, but rather to describe the types of testing available and their uses. It is up to each individual user of strength testing to decide which testing technique is most appropriate for his or her particular application. This booklet discusses four types of strength testing: isometric, isoinertial, psychophysical, and isokinetic. It should be clear from this publication that muscular strength tests are tools that can be used to prevent occupational musculoskeletal disease. However, if these techniques are to be applied successfully, it is imperative that they be applied with a clear understanding of the advantages and limitations associated with each strength assessment procedure.