Functional Capacity Evaluations (FCE) is an assessment of a workers capacity for work. They are conducted by a qualified Allied Health Professional who has an in depth knowledge of injuries, their management and workplaces.

What is an FCE?

An FCE is comprised of a variety of elements, which are carefully selected for each person to ensure relevance to their injury and work role. A reasonable period of time is required to ensure the evaluation is comprehensive and the findings are reliable.

Medical Consent and Informed Consent is obtained prior to the assessment and a blood pressure reading is recorded. A heart rate monitor is worn throughout the assessment to ensure the safety of the participant.

The elements of an FCE include, but are not limited to:

• Client interview and musculoskeletal screening
• Cardiovascular testing
• Postural Tolerances: Sitting, Standing, Squatting, Kneeling, Reaching – at all levels, Stooping
• Climbing ladders, Balance
• Lifting Capacities

Floor to waist, shoulder or overhead, Waist to Waist.

• Carrying
• Pushing/Pulling
• Information about the worker’s perspective – what they think they can/can’t do.
• Cognitive aspects EG Concentration, problem solving and judgment.

A comprehensive report is complied, which interprets the assessment information to formulate recommendations for the worker, the employer and other parties involved in the worker’s rehabilitation.

When is an FCE useful for my injured employee?

FCE’s provide objective information about what a worker can/can’t do with respect to the above elements. Some of the circumstances where they have proven to be effective are:

• When workers are not progressing on their suitable duties.
• For workers who have had serious injuries and considerable time off and are returning to work.
• For workers who have lost confidence in their physical ability and are concerned about returning to work.
• When a worker cannot return to their usual roll and an employer needs to know what they are able to do safely and effectively.