A Fitness for Duty assessment is for employees with a non-work related injury or illness. Specifically, with regards to suitability to return to a specific job role. Sometimes, a Fitness for Duty is required when there are concerns regarding a worker’s ability to perform the essential requirements of a job role in a safe manner due to the progression of a chronic condition.
A non-work related injury or illness does not arise out of the normal course of employment. However, it may have the potential to impact on the health, safety and welfare of the employee or their colleagues. A non-work related injury may also have the potential to inhibit the employee’s ability to fulfill the full requirements of their substantive roles and responsibilities.
Employers must make reasonable adjustments allowing staff to continue at work. Alternatively, for staff to resume their duties within a reasonable time period. However, this must be balanced with legislative responsibilities. For example, occupational, health, safety and welfare obligations.
Employees will often provide their employer with a Return to Work clearance letter from their doctor or specialist. However, sometimes their treating doctor is unaware of specific job demands. This may cause problems for the employee upon return to their job role.
Jobfit can assist employers with information and recommendations for an employee with a non-work related injury or illness. It is important to note:
- Every case is unique. Individuals with the same or similar medical condition may not have the same outcome with regards to their fitness for work.
- Information is crucial to a thorough assessment and a fair and reasonable outcome. The more information the Occupational Doctor has, the better the assessment.
The Fitness for Duty assessment is tailored for the individual
A Fitness for Duty includes:
- A minimum of 30 minutes consultation with an Occupational Doctor. Longer consultations may be required and is determined on a case by case basis.
- Occupational Doctor provides a report to the employer.
THE FITNESS FOR DUTY ASSESSMENT MAY ALSO INCLUDE:
- Full functional capacity evaluation and fitness test, OR
- Fitness test only.
The price of this service will depend on the assessment and time taken for an appropriate review.
Importantly, it is not appropriate to book the employee for a pre-employment medical.
For more information about our Fitness for Duty assessments, please contact us.
