The Importance of Job Analysis Forms

One of the often overlooked tools for facilitating return to wellness (RTW) is the Job Analysis (JA) form.  A JA is a list of the physical requirements and environmental conditions for a specific job, including the amount and frequency of types of activities the job requires.  There are two types of JAs to consider when effectively navigating RTW:  pre-injury JAs and modified duty JAs.  Some jurisdictions already have state forms used for these, many do not.  Your Eastern Claim Representative can provide you with copies of each form.

Why have pre-injury JAs on file for each job at your company?

When an injured worker (IW) goes to the doctor to discuss their restrictions, a pre-injury JA helps the doctor have a better understanding of the physical and environmental demands of the IW's job.  Maybe the IW is required to occasionally lift 50 lbs., but the majority of their job involves sedentary type work.  Instead of totally disabling the IW, the doctor could approve a portion of the job, thereby creating a modified duty opportunity for the IW and Employer.  It also gives the treating providers an idea of what level of physical ability the IW should work toward in physical therapy or work hardening.

What is the purpose of modified duty JAs?

When an IW or a Nurse Case Manager (NCM) asks the doctor if the IW can return to modified duty work, it helps to have a clear explanation of what activities the IW will be required to perform and the frequency/duration of these activities.  It also creates an understanding as to what the IW can and cannot do at work, as to prevent re-injury.  Supervisors or Line Managers who overseeing the IW's transition back to work will also benefit from this.

Modified duty JAs enable IWs to make an informed decision in response to a job offer.  They know what is expected of them if they return to modified duty.  In other words, they aren't just deciding whether they can return to modified duty based on a vaguely described position in the job offer letter.

Employers should keep current JAs on file for each position, and create a bank of modified duty JAs in the event of a lost time work injury.  These small steps will expedite the successful transition of returning the IW (and the Employer's business) to wellness.  Your Eastern Risk Management Consultants and Claims team can assist you with this investment.   These documents will also be available on our website in the coming weeks.