An independent Ergonomic Assessment includes an evaluation of the employee’s work station on site and provides recommendations for modifications or assistive devices/technology to ensure work safety, prevention of a new injury or re-injury, and accommodation of the worker. Such assessments are often conducted when an individual is experiencing pain or discomfort with their job demands, when a specific job is determined to be an appropriate match for an employee returning back to the worksite of their employer or with a new employer, and occasionally when a worker is attending a training facility. An experienced kinesiologist, occupational therapist or ergonomist will conduct a customized evaluation that includes observation of the workplace as well as an examination of the employee regarding pain levels, work duties, and practices. A comprehensive report is produced providing results of the assessment, description of recommended physical changes to the work area or station, including addition of assistive equipment, and suggestions on potential changes to work practices, and habits within the workplace. An ergonomic assessment may also be requested as a stand-alone service or as a result of the recommendations made in a report from a Functional Abilities Evaluation (aka Functional Capacity Assessment).
