TS 13130-5

TS 13130-5 is a guidance document for determining recovery and relaxation times in work measurement. It provides a conceptual framework for interpreting measured human activity data obtained by the work measurement techniques identified in BS 3138 and discussed in BS 3375-3, with attention to the balance between work pace and the need for physiological and mental recovery.

Work measurement and the meaning of recovery

Work measurement is used to analyse the time required to complete a task or work cycle. In this context, relaxation time refers to short breaks or easing of effort during work, while recovery time refers to a longer period needed to restore capacity after sustained exertion. These ideas are especially relevant in repetitive, demanding or attention-intensive work. From a general technical standpoint, setting appropriate times helps organisations interpret measured performance more realistically and supports a more balanced arrangement of work and rest.

What this standard covers

This TS standard provides guidance for human activities that have already been measured by specified work measurement techniques; it does not, on its own, define a new measurement method. Its scope is linked to the techniques described in BS 3138 and BS 3375-3. In practice, that makes the document useful where time-study and related data need to be considered in relation to working pattern, fatigue and recovery needs.

• Guidance for determining recovery times for human activities.
• Guidance for assessing relaxation times.
• Applies to measurements obtained by the work measurement techniques identified in BS 3138 and discussed in BS 3375-3.
• Helps relate workload, pace and recovery needs in practical work planning.