Employee fitness testing, also known as fit-for-duty exams, is a process used by employers to ensure that their workers can safely perform specific job functions. These tests are crucial for workplace safety and are often part of a comprehensive return-to-work program or ensuring the safety of new hires. They can be conducted for employees who are currently working, those returning to work after an illness or injury, or new hires.

Fit-for-Duty Exams: These exams help employers determine if an employee is physically and/or psychologically capable of safely performing their role, especially in labor-intensive positions. The tests are tailored to each employer’s requirements and may include assessments of an employee’s ability to lift heavy objects, crouch, bend, or maneuver in confined spaces1.