Industrial Rehabilitation Program

Just as with work conditioning, this program includes physical conditioning for strength, endurance, and mobility. It also has an emphasis on simulating specific job functions to help reintroduce the employee into the work environment. Work Hardening includes both a physical and psychosocial component, where a licensed Professional Counselor is available to assist with any personal or stress factors which are being experienced by the injured worker. It is indicated for individuals who have a greater gap between their current ability and their job’s requirement. Typical duration is 3 – 4 hours/session, three to five visits per week spanning up to 7 weeks.

This service drastically improves the accuracy and validity of an Employer’s Position Descriptions. A licensed staff member will visit the worksite to make an inventory of processes/duties of each specific job desired which will also include taking measurements of weights, forces, heights, distances. This data can be used to better determine whether an applicant is able to perform the job and/or able to return after an extended absence from illness or injury.

During the hiring process, applicants often undergo criminal background checks and drug screening. For jobs which require heavy lifting, material handling, endurance, and mobility, it is also advantageous to include physical testing to ensure the applicant has no issues in performing the rigor of these positions. Similar reasoning applies for an employee who has been absent for an extended period because of injury, illness, or surgery to ensure their safe return to work. A validated Functional Job Description is required for POET or FFD design unless the employer has current performance requirements elucidated. POETs and FFDs do not require Physician Referral, although if the applicant / employee / evaluator has concern, medical clearance may be required.