💥 KIM-BF (Whole Body Force)
Scientifically Measure Physical Strain in High-Strength Jobs
KIM-BF (Key Indicator Method – Body Force) is a scientific Key Indicator Method developed to assess physical strain associated with high forces applied using the whole body.
It is a powerful decision support tool, especially in jobs requiring heavy force, for preventing musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) and making ergonomic design improvements.
Unlike classic lifting and carrying analyses, KIM-BF measures strain resulting from the overall force production and transmission of the body.
📌 In Which Jobs is KIM-BF Used?
KIM-BF is used in jobs where high force is applied regardless of body posture. These tasks typically involve:
Machining large workpieces
Applying force in machine and equipment operation
Manual positioning of work tools
Manual movement of people (patient transfer, etc.)
Application of constant or repetitive high forces
🔎 Key Features
Force is mostly applied by hand
Force is transmitted through the shoulders, back, waist, legs, and feet
The work usually requires a high force that cannot be performed while seated
Often involves constant and intense muscle activity
🏭 Typical Application Areas
KIM-BF is particularly critical in the following sectors and tasks:
Casting cleaning and heavy part production
Manual operation of cutting valves
Operation of cranes, hoists, and levers
Tracking of railway vehicles
Concrete finishing
Operation of compressor-powered breakers and chainsaws
Heavy assembly work and bolting of large parts
Operation of sledgehammers and heavy hammers
Manually operated press systems
Shoeing Work
Use of manipulators or technical equipment
Load movement on roller/ball conveyors
Rope tying in ports
Patient transfer and positioning
Applying uncontrolled force in these types of tasks can lead to herniated discs, shoulder problems, and chronic back pain.
🔍 Differentiation from Other KIM Methods
KIM-BF offers a clear classification to analyze the correct type of strain.
📦 If the operation involves:
✔ Lifting, carrying, or holding a load of ≥ 3 kg
→ KIM-LHC (Lifting, Holding, Carrying) assessment should also be performed.
✔ Pushing or pulling motion
→ KIM-PP (Push & Pull) analysis should be added.
✔ Short-cycle repetitive tasks with low force
→ KIM-MHO (Manual Work Processes) should be considered.
📊 Multiple Sub-Actions
If different types of physical strain are present within the same workday, each should be evaluated separately (e.g., with the KIM-BF-E extended analysis model).
A realistic overload assessment can only be made after all physical strains experienced throughout the workday have been analyzed.
⚙ Strategic Importance in Ergonomics Risk Management
KIM-BF not only scores existing risks but also provides data for ergonomic design and improvement processes.
🎯 Contributions
Early detection of high-force related MSD risks
Optimizes workstation design
Provides engineering solutions to reduce force requirements
Provides data for job rotation planning
Reduces the risk of work accidents and occupational diseases
📜 Legal and Standard Compliance
KIM-BF applications;
ISO 11228 Series
ISO 11226
Establishes an ergonomics risk assessment process compliant with the Occupational Health and Safety Law No. 6331.
This ensures that businesses are both prepared for audits and provide sustainable occupational health management.
🚀 KIM-BF Applications with Tokgöz Ergonomics
At Tokgöz Ergonomics, we offer KIM-BF analyses as follows:
✔ Field observations and scoring
✔ Detailed risk reporting
✔ Improvement and engineering recommendations
✔ Practical training for OHS specialists and engineers
✔ Cost-benefit analysis and investment planning
Our aim is not only to identify risks but also to ensure a sustainable ergonomics transformation with measurable data.
🌟 Why Should You Have a KIM-BF Analysis Done?
Reduces back and shoulder problems caused by heavy force
Increases production performance
Reduces workforce loss
Helps you meet legal obligations
Reduces healthcare costs in the long term
Investing in ergonomics for high-force jobs is a strategic gain, not a cost.
Conclusion
KIM-BF is a powerful ergonomics risk assessment method that measures whole-body force-related physical strain with objective criteria and transforms this data into actionable improvement plans.
With Tokgöz Ergonomics' "The best posture is the next posture" approach, you can make your high-force jobs safer and more efficient.
📞 Contact us for KIM-BF analysis and ergonomics consulting.
Healthy employees are the foundation of sustainable production.