A job analysis is a detailed report of a particular job and the skills as well as the physical demands of that job that are required. For the purposes of safety, injury prevention, ADA compliance, etc., the job description must contain the physical requirements of the essential functions of the job.
A job analysis is the foundation on which a verifiable post-offer employment test is based. It is also often the key to an early, safe return to work of an injured worker.
Further, it is ideal for assisting employers to recognize and reduce the stressors responsible for cumulative trauma disorders.
Job Ready Services completes a job analysis by observing the job; taking measurements and weighing tools and equipment used on the job; interviewing the employees who perform the job as well as the supervisors and managers that oversee the job; and sometimes even perform the job tasks themselves! A good job analysis will be written in such a way that the job can be “pictured” by the individual reading it.
Job analyses that clearly indicate the physical demands of the job are more likely to be understood by physicians, which may lead to an earlier release to return to transitional duty or regular work. A good job analysis is not only legally sound, but reduces the likelihood of misunderstandings about return to work and provides accountability for all parties involved.
