A Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE) is a physical assessment used to determine a worker’s or employees physical capacities to perform the physical demands of their job role. This assessment is typically conducted within a clinical environment where there is access to standardized equipment to complete the test. However the assessment can be completed on site at the employee’s workplace if specific functional job demands are required.
The functional capacity evaluation assessment is conducted by a qualified Allied Health Professional, and at Advantage Injury Management Services we have a range of qualified and friendly Occupational Therapists, Physiotherapists and Exercise Physiologists who are highly skilled in the conduction of functional capacity evaluation assessments.
Why use a functional capacity evaluation?
1) A functional capacity evaluation is beneficial to both employers and employees. A functional capacity evaluation can be used to assist an employee in their recovery and rehabilitation who is return to work following an injury or illness (work related or non-work related). As a functional capacity evaluation can be completed to determine the employee’s current physical capacities and limitations and therefore identify their ability to safely complete their specific job demands and tasks.
2) To determine an employees capacity for full duties before or after receiving full medical clearance.
3) A functional capacity evaluation can be completed onsite especially for industries including aged care, manufacturing etc. as this allows the employees physical capacities to be evaluated completing the actual job tasks as well as their ability to use equipment such as hoists. Where the functional capacity evaluation is completed onsite Manual Handling training and postural recommendations are also provided to the employee to ensure that tasks are performed safely.
4) A Pre-Employment Functional Capacity Evaluation can also be completed for new or potential employees to ensure that they are physically capable of completing the job demands of the role.
What is involved?
As part of the functional capacity evaluation, Advantage Injury Management Services conducts an assessment approximately 2 hours long, which includes an interview with the employee followed by a number of standardised physical test items. These physical test items include a range of physical tasks such as lifting, carrying, squatting, lunging, balancing, reaching and cardiovascular fitness. During the functional capacity evaluation information on correct manual handling postures are taught and reinforced throughout the assessment to ensure patient safety. Following the assessment the Therapist will then complete a timely, objective and thorough report summarising the results and provide clear recommendations based on these results.
What are the benefits of a functional capacity evaluation?
The benefits of a functional capacity evaluation for both employers and employees are clear as they:
- Identifies an employees current physical capacities and limitations to determine their capacity to perform their job demands and tasks. This will help eliminate re-aggravations or exacerbations of injuries.
- Where limitations are identified further treatment or return to work assistance can be recommended where employers and employees work together such as a Workplace Assessment, Suitable Duties Plan, Work Hardening Program, Manual Handling Training, Vocational Assistance etc.
- Ensure that new employees are fit and physically capable of completing the demands of their job role. Therefore decreasing the likelihood of a WorkCover Queensland claim due to injury and illness within the workplace.
- Improved workplace morale and productivity due to reduced injury, illness and sick leave taken or time off work.
If you would like more information regarding a Functional Capacity Evaluation or would like to book an assessment please contact Advantage Injury Management Services and we would be happy to assist you!
Blog- Rachael Duplock (Occupational Therapist)