Physical Demands Description
A Physical Demands Description (PDD) is a quantitative report that identifies and categorizes the physical demands of the job. The PDD involves working with skilled workers, management staff and union representatives (if applicable) to confirm essential versus non-essential tasks, work procedures and equipment used. A Kinetic Kare Certified Ergonomist conducts the assessment of the job within the work environment.
How can A PDD be used?
MSD Prevention: PDDs break down the physical requirements of each job and are referenced when conducting ergonomic risk assessments
Accommodation & Return to Work: PDDs are used when conducting a job match assessment to compare the physical demands of each job to a worker’s functional abilities and restrictions
As a reference for job descriptions
How long does a pDD take?
The duration of the physical demands description varies, depending on the job.
What does a pDD look like?
Each session begins with an interview. The ergonomist conducts an interview with the organization to gain an understanding of the essential and non-essential job tasks.
The next step is to observe a worker performing the job tasks to collect data.
Pictures and video are used to document postures and duration
Tape measure, force gauge and weigh scale are used to measure physical requirements
What’s included?
Pre-meeting with supervisor, manager or main contact
On-site data collection
Report summarizing the essential and non-essential job tasks and physical demands