Aim: Musculoskeletal disorders represent the main cause of absenteeism. The aim of this study was to test the practicability of a multi-step inventory of examinations for the musculoskeletal system within normal occupational health examinations. Method: This multi-step inventory consists of four levels each with three blocks. The first level (check-up) and the second level (elementary examinations) can be used by all medical disciplines, level three and four only by orthopaedic physicians. Results: 29 items from the first level, and where necessary items from the second level, were integrated in the occupational health examinations of 100 coal mine workers. With only an additional 2 to 3 minutes needed, this multi-step inventory was highly practicable. Conclusions: The integration of this standardised multi-step inventory for the musculoskeletal system in occupational health examinations allows reliable and comparable statements to be made. It may improve the management of occupational health for each worker as well as for a whole group.