Pre-work Screens
Rehabilitation and Functional Assessment (RFA) test battery in conjunction with The Work Expert
The RFA test is a standardized test designed to assess the individual’s inherent capacity (cardiorespiratory fitness) and functional capacity to perform and endure manual work in a safe and productive manner over an 8-hour shift. It assesses mobility in both restricted and unrestricted environments, different work positions, effort ability needed in restricted and unrestricted work environments and dexterity in different work positions.
In conjunction with medical assessment, the RFA test provides the physical and functional work capacity assessments during the medical screening process.
“The RFA test battery assists in Determining the health profile of your employees whilst assessing work capacity”
- Assess prospective employees to ensure a proper match between worker capabilities and inherent job requirements
- Assess in-service employees post injury / illness to allow for safe return to work
- Facilitate early return to work by means of monitoring the rehabilitation process from the onset until return to work
- Facilitate alternative employment based on a comprehensive work capacity profile, highlighting residual abilities, and indicating possible limitations
- Assessment as part of periodical medical assessments – to promote a healthy lifestyle and implement proactive health promotion programs. Reference: The Work Expert (https://www.rfac.co.za/)
Job Risks Profiles (Functional Job Analysis)
A Job Risk Assessment (JRA) is a structured process that is used to identify the essential physical functions of an occupation. The information is obtained through an interview and is then used to identify which tasks and activities are associated with the occupation.
A job risk assessment can assist in constructing a job description, and to ensure the client is capable of completing the necessary job tasks which can assist with providing a safer work environment for all.
The job risk assessment assesses the rate of physical intensity which is connected to your occupation. Physical intensity may include walking, climbing stairs, lifting, pushing or pulling certain objects or equipment in the work place. Other job tasks may include cognitive abilities, life skills and other work skills.
Work assessments
The main aim of conducting a work assessment is to identify and evaluate physical, cognitive, environmental and ergonomically requirements of an employee’s duties and tasks and roles of his or her occupation. During the work visit we will observe how he/she performs these tasks, and if these tasks are performed safely and correctly. After conducting a work assessment, the Occupational Therapist will provide the referring Doctor/Employer/Insurer with a compiled report of the work assessment as well as the clients ability to complete the work related duties and tasks. If the client is unable to complete all tasks and duties, or having difficulties completing tasks and duties, the Occupational Therapist will provide recommendations regarding accommodations or adjustments for the work place.
No area is too small or large for a work assessment. A work assessment may be conducted in an area such as a workspace being a desk with a computer, keyboard and mouse or even underground in the mining industry.
Ergonomics
Ergo what? Ergonomics is the study of a person in their environment, be it home or working environment. As Occupational Therapists we are equipped with ‘knowledge of human anatomy, physiology and activity analysis which makes us qualified to assist in the area of ergonomics. Due to the fact we work with a holistic approach, we assist each client as a unique individual with individual needs and ensure a client centred approach when assisting with ergonomics of the office or the home environment.’
The goal of assessing ergonomics is to decrease the discomfort and risk of injury of the person/employee in the environment. Correct ergonomics promotes health, safety and comfort of the employee.
How may Occupational Therapists assist with Ergonomics?
- Conducting a work assessment to assess your office and office equipment to provide the employer/referral source with recommendations of adaptions or modifications which may be made to ensure a comfortable and safe working environment.
- Education and modification of work behaviour or positions to assist with preventing injury.
- Identification of risk factors in the work place and discussions/recommendations of adaptions which may be possible to protect the employees an employer.
Ergonomics may be:
- Physical such as the positioning of a keyboard, the height of your desk or chair to accommodate for any injury or illness.
- Cognitive such as the organisation or issuing/structure of your workload
- Sensory such the sensory stimulation which may be overwhelming in your area which causes distraction and low levels of production.
- At the home or at work depending on your need, diagnosis and prognosis.