An assessment designed to evaluate an employee’s ability to safely and effectively perform the essential functions of their job. This evaluation often arises when there are concerns about an employee’s physical, mental, or emotional state impacting their work performance or posing a safety risk to themselves or others. For example, an employee returning from medical leave for a back injury might undergo this assessment to determine if they can safely lift required weights.
The purpose of this evaluation is multifaceted. It ensures workplace safety by preventing accidents and injuries that could result from impaired performance. It also protects the employee by confirming they are capable of handling their job duties without exacerbating any existing conditions. Historically, these evaluations have been used in high-risk professions like law enforcement and transportation, but their application is expanding across various industries to mitigate risk and maintain a productive work environment.
