Frequently asked questions
| Ergonomics | Job Demand Analysis | Functional Capacity Evaluation |
Ergonomics
What is ergonomics, and why is it important?
Ergonomics is the science of fitting jobs to people. It focuses on creating a match between workstations, tools, and job demands, with the goal of promoting health and optimal human performance.
We’ve had only a few recordable injuries. How can you save us money?
Many overuse injuries will never show up on your OSHA log, but will cost your organization money anyway. According to most estimates, indirect costs are five to seven times greater than direct costs. These indirect costs include absenteeism, lost productivity, increased medical insurance premiums, additional training, overtime payments and employee turnover.
We’ve already invested in good equipment. What more do we need?
Studies show that employees don’t always know how to use equipment properly. In many cases, we can make modifications without recommending new products. Our goal is to show your employees how to effectively use the equipment you already have.
How can you predict who will have the next injury?
Studies show that employee discomfort is the most reliable warning of a pending overuse injury. We use proactive employee discomfort surveys to gather data in order to identify people with the greatest risk of injury.
Do we really need an in-depth ergonomic evaluation for every employee?
No. We can identify and target the employees at greatest risk of injury and take proactive steps to mitigate the factors underlying those potential injuries. We offer three types of computer workstation assessments.
Type 1- Workstation Audit
The audit is designed for lower-risk employees who need a little hands-on help to review the proper posture and make minor workstation adjustments.Type 2- Workstation Evaluation
The detailed, complete workstation evaluation is designed as either a preventive or post-injury measure. This in-depth evaluation gives you recommendations to reduce identified risk factors and ergonomic hazards.Type 3- Workstation Follow Up
The follow up is designed to ensure that recommendations are implemented properly and that employee discomfort levels are decreased.
Can you customize a program for us?
We recognize that each workplace is unique. We can partner with you to develop a program that fits your organizational culture, industry and workforce.
Job Demand Analysis
What are the benefits of a job demand analysis?
A job demand analysis is the first step in identifying essential job functions, writing a functional job description, planning for return to work or developing a pre-employment assessment. Medical and case-management decisions can then be based upon an appreciation of the actual physical job demands.
Functional Capacity Evaluation
What is the KEY Method?
A leading expert in the field of industrial rehabilitation, Glenda Key, P.T., developed KEY Functional Assessments, Inc. This method is used worldwide to provide assessment results that are highly predictive of an injured person’s ability return to work.
How can you help us hire the “right” person?
The prior-to-hire functional assessment accurately predicts which applicants who are likely to become injured on the job for which they are poorly suited.
Does this assessment comply with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)?
Yes. Applicants are given the opportunity to demonstrate the ability to perform essential job functions. Testing is job-related and complies with both ADA and EEOC. Reasonable accommodations may be made in order to place an applicant with a disability.