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Job Analysis
Tools
THE
PHYSICAL ABILITIES ANALYSIS METHODOLOGY
The foundation of the MED-TOX job analysis methodology is in the
description of human behavior during physically demanding work
(specific job tasks) and the linkage of that behavior to human
factors (physical abilities). These physical abilities have been
identified from several research-based disciplines including
exercise physiology, human factors, industrial psychology and
medicine (See: Myers, DC, et al., (1993). The dimensions of human physical performance: factor
analyses of strength, stamina, flexibility, and body composition
measures. Human Performance , [6] {4}. Our approach
identifies verifiable and observable elements of the job (tasks)
and links these tasks to specific physical abilities. Examples of tasks and their physical ability measures are shown in the the following pdf files. The password to open each file is "medtox."
The MED-TOX approach incorporates measures of task frequency and
task criticality in compliance with the Uniform Guidelines
on Employee Selection Procedures. The ADA, while not requiring
the use of the Guidelines, implicitly requires these
measures as being necessary for the determination of essential job
functions. The results of the physical abilities analysis can be
used to link medical guidelines (or physical ability measures) to each job. The 22 physical
abilities utilized include the following:
One advantage to using the physical abilities analysis method is that evey job task can be linked to several valid and reliable physical ability tests. This provides physicians and employers with improved means of assessing individuals for physically demanding work. THE WORKING CONDITIONS ANALYSIS METHODOLOGY Environmental hazards, for example, are often of more use in selecting appropriate medical
screening tests than are knowing the physical demands of a given job. Consider the chest x-ray.
Chest x-rays are not recommended for routine medical screening for any population according all
leading authorities. However, in the work place, such screening may be justified if employees are to
be placed in occupations with significant respiratory hazards (such as firefighting and law
enforcement). In these cases, it is very useful for occupational medical professionals to know what
environmental hazards are present in jobs, since several respiratory conditions are related to these
hazards. Similarly several skin conditions can be aggravated by exposure to ultraviolet light or even
water, oil, or grease. Therefore, knowing what environmental hazards are present for a given job can
provide significant benefits to the employer and to the occupational medical screener. For an example of a Working Conditions Profile, click the link below. The password to open the pdf file is
"med-tox."
Without without an understanding of a job's working conditions it is very difficult to make sound medical or physical employment decisions for prospective applicants with hearing disabilities, skin conditions, heart conditions, a history of cancer and most other medical conditions. A clear understanding of the environment in which job duties are performed is an occupational medical necessity.
The working conditions that are utilized in the MED-TOX job analysis include the following:
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