PREMUS 2025: 12th International Scientific Conference on the Prevention of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders
Development of the PIPA method: an employee-centered tool for preventing musculoskeletal disorders
2Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala, Sweden
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Introduction: This study examines the development of the Participate, Identify, Prioritize, and Act (PIPA) method, aimed at enhancing risk management processes in the retail sector, particularly regarding the prevention of work-related musculoskeletal disorders. Participatory risk management approaches involving collaboration among managers, employees, and health and safety representatives have been shown to effectively improve workplace conditions; however, comprehensive methods addressing the full risk management cycle and employee participation are notably lacking. Existing tools predominantly focus on risk assessment, neglecting subsequent steps necessary for meaningful risk management. The research highlights the need for a method that not only assesses risks but also guides employers through the entire risk management process while engaging employees. The study’s objective was to develop a new method aimed to assist retail employers identify hazardous work tasks early and implement targeted interventions to prevent musculoskeletal disorders. Additionally, the article also explores the experience of implementing PIPA 1.0 in the retail sector.
Methods: The development of the PIPA method followed the Knowledge-to-Action framework [1] and comprised three phases:
- initial concept formulation,
- iterative content development in collaboration with retail stakeholders to address identified needs and requirements, and
- feasibility testing through a pilot study involving two retail stores. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with seven participants, the interviews were analyzed thematically.
Results: The pilot study showed that the PIPA method captured relevant ergonomic issues, including physical, psychosocial and organizational factors. While the structured approach was appreciated, challenges such as low survey participation rates and difficulties in engaging employees in workshops were identified. Participants emphasized the need for robust communication strategies and flexible engagement methods to improve employee involvement in the risk management process.
Discussion: Challenges encountered during the pilot study highlight the importance of effective communication strategies to boost employee engagement. Implementing diverse dissemination methods, such as QR codes for survey participation, can enhance involvement, while providing strong support for participants in organizations without established ergonomic practices is also critical.
Conclusion: The PIPA method presents a promising approach to ergonomic risk management by integrating employee feedback and focusing on holistic assessments of workplace conditions. Future refinements and usability evaluations will help validate its usefulness in different workplace settings, contributing to a safer and healthier work environment.
