Client-Related Physical Therapy Consultation Ergonomic assessment is a science that deals with how human beings carry out tasks, use tools and interact with the environment. Ergonomic specialists’ aim at providing a safe environment for workers by redesigning jobs and the tasks related to those jobs. Ergonomic improvements are suggested in an effort to increase employee’s health and safety, performance and the overall productivity and quality at work. Physical therapists are involved in making recommendations for the approaches that workers can use to carry out their daily tasks. This paper seeks to explore on the roles of a physical therapist in an ergonomic workplace assessment. Workplaces that are ergonomically designed are helpful …show more content…
The system allows the therapist to customize and come up with a functional test comprising of personal questionnaires, activity-related cardiovascular assessments, work simulation and tolerance and strength testing. Calibration of all equipment including force gauges, dynameters and testing equipments is vital in order to maintain precision and consistency. This is done once in a fortnight since the program cannot allow testing without performing the calibration. Evaluators complete the Hanoun certification, which involves completion of sample testing, formal education and excelling in a written test. To verify the accuracy of the test from the injured worker’s perspective, a detailed medical history and a description of the functions of the job are obtained. Documentation of any inconsistency between the written description of the job and the client’s description of the job takes …show more content…
The therapist needs to exhibit proficiency in Industrial Rehabilitation and functional testing. Testing is customized based on the patient’s work description and proper performance of a specific job. Patient observation starts when he/she enters the clinic and ends after exiting the facility. Reimbursements for consultative ergonomic assessments conducted by licensed physical therapists are covered by workers’ compensation programs and private insurance plans. However, importance is subject to checking one’s plan before scheduling an appointment. Legal factors to consider involve the regulatory compliance in ergonomics program. It is significant to keep specific records regarding occupational illnesses. There are serious consequences for businesses that do not abide by risk management procedures. Violating certain type of high risk can lead to loss of business license, penalties and/or imprisonment. Another risk factor is the insurance requirements where action may be taken in cases of growing claims. Experience modifier rates can double and triple the premiums paid by workers in cases where claims exceed the previous claim