| | June 2023MANAGEHRMAGAZINE.COM19The ABILITYusaTM Regulatory compliant, functional testing is unlike other "employment physicals" and testing programs that may include a cursory look at the individual's general health and fitness plus some simple lifting that, however, may be unrelated to specific components of essential tasks presenting risk. It incorporates a more comprehensive set of data collection points which provides a broader and more objective understanding of a person's physical abilities to perform a given set of tasksmusculoskeletal status and functional abilities, as well as task simulations that replicate the heights, distances, repetitions, and forces of actual physical demands learned through in-depth Job Analysis. Testing reports provide Pass or Fail results that address considerations of current abilities and buffers of strength needed for continued safety success in a given position. When relevant, reports have recommendations regarding further education/training, ergonomic considerations, or specific safety considerations for that individual.Apart from Post-Offer testing, the Fitness-for-Duty and Return to Work tests determine the worker's current abilities after an accident or illness absence. Ideally, individuals post-injury could continue on the job, as work is therapeutic. Temporary work modifications can be done progressively, objectively, and safely. Likewise, Return to Work testing provides objective knowledge of safe capabilities and enables clarity in decision-making for job alterations, accommodation considerations, and other HR decisions, temporary or permanent. Fitness-for-Duty and Return-to-Work testing increases worker longevity within the company.First Symptom Safety Education and Ergonomic assessment and training consultations prevent first symptom progression to injury at the company workstation or in the worker's home. Breckenridge asserts that when a business is committed to a safety culture, they see the value of using the program's strategies for immediate first-symptom reporting for needed interventions. Professional observations, testing, education, and training can most often prevent progression to injury. Leaders and employees are empowered to take action and involve clinicians to implement needed interventions for maximizing comfort and safety. abilityusa.com"We don't want to put our heads in the sand and ignore somebody's symptoms. We emphasize giving them better training on how to do the job safely, helping them understand and use good body mechanics, neutral postures, safe work practices, and comfortable ways to approach a task," says Brandi Dooley, Senior Injury Prevention Specialist of ABILITYusaTM. Other testing services may include Respiratory function/Spirometry and Respirator Fit testing, Vision Screening, and Drug and Alcohol Testing. The ABILITYusaTM "3 Es of Injury Prevention" (Evaluation, Education, and Empowerment) strategy success has been demonstrated with significant decreases in Experience Modification Rates, thus lowering insurance premiums. One typical example of injury reduction outcome success was with a nursing facility caring for heavy, debilitated, and paralyzed patients. Staff's frequent and heavy tasks included helping with bed mobility, transfers in and out of bed to wheelchairs, and to and from bathroom and shower facilities. Prior to program implementation, injuries were a regular occurrence, experienced at very high numbers.After Job Analysis based Evaluation, Education/Training, and Empowerment, that all changed. Knowing what a given employee's physical abilities were through testing, guided task assignments, and subsequent education and training, empowered a cohesive safety culture that immediately reduced injuries. Further, addressing any symptoms immediately was another powerful strategy. Within two years, injuries were down to one to three injuries per year, which is unheard of in this industry. After approximately the fourth year, the Experience Modification ratings supported a decrease in insurance premiums. Unsurprisingly, Employers, Candidates, and Employees consistently give positive feedback about their experiences and successes. Leveraging the expertise of its staff, certified providers, impactful testing programs, and years of experience, ABILITYusa continues to deliver goodwill and help employers better safeguard their employees from physical injuries through the "3 Es of Injury Prevention".
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