When it comes to manual labor jobs that require a certain degree of physical strength and fitness, it’s always smart to take certain precautions in order to avoid future issues. If an employee is returning to his or her previous position after an extended absence for any reason, it may be necessary to order a fit-for-duty assessment in Parkville/Baltimore to ensure that the worker is physically prepared and possesses the functional capabilities to resume the duties of their job.

Fit-for-duty assessments can be requested for a number of reasons, but in many cases they are used for the example provided above: when an employee is prepared to return to his or her job after some time away from it—either due to an injury or any other circumstance—and the employer wants to be certain that the employee is capable of taking on the same workload as before and has the functional capabilities to do so.

Another situation that might lead employers to request an assessment is if they are uncertain whether a current employee can perform the essential functions of the job, which usually occurs if job performance suggests otherwise. In addition, fit-for-duty assessments may be performed as post-offer physical exams, which are given to potential employees after an offer is made to ensure they are capable of completing all tasks needed for the job.

These assessments are to be performed by an impartial, independent health-care provider that must maintain a position of neutrality in performing the exams. As trained and certified healthcare providers with a variety of capabilities, we can perform a fit-for-duty assessment in Parkville/Baltimore for any employer that believes one is necessary.

Once ordered, our process always begins with a detailed assessment of each job’s physical requirements, which are then translated into a specific, customized program. From there, we will perform a comprehensive examination of the musculoskeletal system, which includes a basic neurological assessment that’s directed towards the worker’s ability to perform his or her duties. We will then test each subject on specific functional capabilities and other material handling techniques that may be necessary.

Based on the results of these tests, we then make an assessment regarding the employee’s ability to perform the essential functions of their job and if there are any noticeable deficits that may prevent this. We will also determine if there are any risks for self-harm, danger to others or the possibility of a recurrence of the initial incident (when applicable). From there, we will make the recommendation on whether or not the employee is in fact capable of returning to work safely, with or without additional accommodations.

A fit-for-duty assessment in Parkville/Baltimore is an important tool in risk management for any business in which demanding physical labor is required. At CAM Physical Therapy and Wellness Services in Laurel, Hyattsville, Glenn Dale/Bowie and Parkville/Baltimore, MD, we can perform an assessment for any situation, and in the process, save you from possible complications in the future. Call us at 301-853-0093 for more information or to schedule an appointment.