Services
Functional Workplace Assessments
Services
Functional Workplace Assessments
Work-related injuries will always be a risk in many professions, even apart from the occasional accident or mishap. Most often they are caused by strenuous activities, like lifting materials or sitting in uncomfortable positions for prolonged periods with limited mobility. These types of issues are common in corporate settings as well as with labour-intensive activities, and can impede a worker’s ability to function well at their job.
A functional workplace assessment analyses an employee’s current physical condition in relation to their daily tasks. This evaluation measures a person’s capability to work efficiently, taking into account various physical attributes such as their motor skills and musculoskeletal capabilities. This information is then passed on to the employer, detailing the employee’s current state of health and whether or not they can work effectively over a given period.
What does a functional workplace assessment involve?
A functional workplace assessment measures your physical capability for work by testing your muscle strength, range of motion, and heart rate, among other workplace-specific measurements.
Depending on the situation, if your results are not up to standard, therapeutic involvement might be necessary to achieve a positive result. In this event, therapists will offer you guidance and help you manage your injuries by coming up with the best treatment option available so that you can continue at your workplace.
The process protects both you and your employer from a potentially risky situation, as certain injuries and health conditions can lead to dangerous outcomes as well as reduced work efficiency.
How is assessment conducted?
Assessments are performed through various exercises and testing to measure your present physical condition. After these sessions, both subjective and objective assessment reports will be submitted to your employer.
Evaluation may include performing physical actions involving specific equipment such as a heart rate monitor to measure your condition, or a goniometer to determine your mobility limitations.
More specialised trials include a step test that measures your overall balance during changes in movement and weight, as you stand on one leg. The test also involves repeatedly lifting each leg up and down a specified height in limited intervals.
Testing also includes the use of a grip strength dynamometer to measure your effective strength. The above methods are useful to identify the potential risk of cardiovascular conditions, which are more common in people over 40.
What happens if I have a poor evaluation?
In the event of an injury or other impeding condition, the therapist will show you how to get back in adequate condition, enabling you to resume your job and reach your physical potential.
However, if your condition is deemed to be serious, you might not be able to work for the same employer – at least not right away. Our physiotherapists always try to find the best solution for overcoming the challenges you face. They will advise you on what needs to be addressed, and which restrictions may need to be followed if you are to resume your day job.