Implementation Of Physical Employment Standards For Physically Demanding Occupations

Abstract

PURPOSE: Workers in physically demanding occupations are often required to demonstrate appropriate levels of physical capability throughout their careers by undertaking routine in-service physical ability assessments. However, integrating physical employment standards (PES) and associated tests into organisational policies and procedures can be challenging for employers and there is a shortage of best practice guidance in this area. The aim of this study is to describe the process of integrating a developed PES into a physical capability management procedure, using a real-world example in the UK Fire & Rescue Service. METHODS: Using physical demands and performance data from a series of studies to investigate the cardiorespiratory, strength and muscular endurance requirements for endorsed UK firefighting activities, a physical capability management process was developed with industry stakeholders, including management, trade unions and subject matter experts. The procedure was designed to manage all levels of physical ability within a physically demanding workforce, prioritising employee safety and fairness. RESULTS: Occupational scientists and industry stakeholders defined performance standards relating to unacceptable, unclear, and acceptable performance of criterion tasks for UK firefighters. Cut-scores were identified for unacceptable (red), unclear (amber) and acceptable (green) performance standards related to each predictive test (Table 1). A process for triaging and managing all levels of workers physical abilities was agreed using the traffic-light system. CONCLUSIONS: This paper describes the processes involved in implementing a physical assessment procedure, for the administration of routine in-service PES and tests in a physically demanding occupation.Table 1: Cut-scores for each predictive test and performance standard.HR hose run; SC stair climb; EC equipment carry; CE casualty evacuation; ∗ 28 kg weight.