The DataFit PCA, a tool FIT for reducing workplace injuries and workforce costs.

When it comes to injuries, especially musculoskeletal disorders, a DataFit Physical Capability Assessment (PCA) can be an extremely helpful and useful tool. Not only can it help reduce the number of injuries in an organization, but by doing so, it will also help deliver significant cost savings.

A PCA quantifies the essential physical demands required by an employee for a job. A PCA is used to match an employee to the right job during the hiring process.

How does a PCA do this?

A PCA helps match an employee to the right job through:

• Providing accurate, objective, and reliable data from the gold standard method of musculoskeletal testing, utilizing isokinetic dynamometers.
• The use of an isokinetic dynamometer device which is an extremely accurate and objective way to measure physical strength, joint range of motion, limb symmetry, and overall physical capabilities of an individual as well as identify pre-existing injuries or deficiencies in the body.
• Linking an employee’s physical capabilities directly with essential requirements of the job.

How do the benefits of a PCA translate into decreased injury rates and higher cost savings?

A PCA helps an organization reduce injuries and save costs by quantifying and comparing the physical capability aspects of the job with the employee’s physical abilities, as well as symmetry and positional tolerances such as standing, walking, sitting, reaching, etc. The data from this assessment is then processed through the DataFit algorithm and a report is generated with the information necessary to help employers place the right candidates in the right positions reducing the risk of injury in the workplace.

How are the results of a PCA applied to physically demanding jobs?

Supporting employment decisions by determining and classifying jobs based on the U.S. Dept. of Labor physical demand level (Sedentary, Light, Medium, Heavy, Very Heavy). This helps to ensure the work is more inclusive for employees, as well as ensuring they are not working in jobs that they are not physically capable of performing.

The results of the DataFit PCA can be utilized for physical abilities testing to employ candidates capable of performing the physical requirements of the essential functions of the job. They can also be utilized as the basis for intervention plans and fitness programs to sustain the physical strength of existing employees.

A DataFit PCA serves as a critical proactive tool to help place employees in the correct jobs, significantly reducing risk and cost of injury. Ultimately, this allows for a more sustainable, healthier, happier, and more productive workforce.