The laws governing the scrum could be overhauled as a result of research being carried out at the University of Bath.

Scientists at the university are working with the International Rugby Board to gather – for the first time – precise data on the forces involved in scrummaging.

Sophisticated sensors similar to ones used to assess the impact of landing gear on runway lights are being used to measure the impact that front-rows inflict on one another.

Bath Rugby are to be invited to take part in the study, which will look at scrummaging at all standards of the game, not just the elite level.

The intention of the study is to ascertain how best to assist player welfare and improve the way the scrum is refereed.

Scientists will experiment with different styles of scrummaging. As well as assessing the current style of engagement, the Biomechanics of the Rugby Scrum study will also look at 'static' engagement, where front-rows tentatively interlock before pushing when given the signal.

Another procedure that the scientists will consider is whether the tight fives should engage first, with the backrows then joining after a pause.

The two-year study will use controlled live and scrum machine situations to identify better playing, coaching and refereeing techniques.

The project is being led by Dr Grant Trewartha and Dr Keith Stokes from the Claverton Down university's Sport, Health and Exercise Science Group.

Dr Trewartha, who plays rugby for Chippenham, believes the technology used in the tests could become a key part of elite clubs' training analysis.

"There is huge potential from a performance feedback point of view, " he said. "By measuring the forces you can assess what technique generates the most force and gives you the most advantage.

"We are excited to be involved in the project and look forward to providing data to inform future scrummaging practices. It's great to be involved with the IRB for such a large scale project which broadens our contribution to the science of rugby."

IRB chairman Bernard Lapasset said: "We are delighted to be working in partnership with the University of Bath to deliver what will be the most comprehensive study of the scrum.

"The University of Bath's Sport, Health and Exercise Science Group are world leaders in this type of study and we are excited about what can be achieved for the game through the delivery of this ambitious project."