Vocational Rehabilitation Program
The Vocational Rehabilitation Program provides assistance in accessing vocational services or guidance to workers if they are unable to return to pre-injury jobs. Assessment and program will vary depending upon the worker's needs. The vocational rehabilitation specialist will evaluate workers on their interests and work values. This information can then be used to help guide workers into an appropriate career path. The job analysis evaluates the tasks the worker is performing, the physical demands of the tasks/job and ergonomics and safety issues. The Ergonomics Consultation involves a more detailed study of the work station, tools, equipment and other factors affecting the worker's interaction with the work environment, according to guidelines established by the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health. Recommendations for enhancing work-site safety are discussed with the employer and a written report can be provided at the employer's request.
Services Provided
Job analysis is the first step in identifying injury prevention needs of employers, developing rehabilitation programs for injured workers and implementing modifications and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. The analysis includes:
- identification of job tasks and essential job functions
- assessment of the physical demands of tasks
- assessment of work station set-up and ergonomics
- review of environmental conditions in the work place