FAQ

The PCE utilizes isokinetic equipment which does not involve lifting or carrying any weight such as is required with an FCE. As a result, the PCE will not cause an injury during the evaluation which is always a risk when lifting or carrying a fixed amount of weight.

The PCE objectively measures the force generating capabilities of the major muscle groups involved in the essential functions of a job. The force curves created by the isokinetic testing are an objective component of the PCE. They are used to determine if a pre-existing condition exists that would result in the worker’s inability to safely perform the essential functions of the job. This objective capability does not exist with the FCE.

The PCE evaluates specific joints, which recent court proceedings indicated is critical when doing return to work testing. The courts have ruled that the FCE collects information that goes beyond the scope of the injury which is in violation of the worker’s privacy. Since the PCE is joint specific it is possible for IPCS to determine a worker’s muscle symmetry. Muscles working synergistically is critical to injury prevention. Muscle symmetry analysis is not possible with an FCE. In addition, because of the joint specificity that occurs with a PCE, it is possible to include the analysis of a strength to body weight ratio score. A worker’s strength should be proportionate to his/her body weight. If the strength is not proportionate, the worker is at an increased risk for injury and/or disease.

The PCE is an isokinetic evaluation that is administered by a certified clinician such as a licensed physical therapist, athletic trainer, exercise physiologist or physical therapy assistant at one of our qualified providers throughout North America.

JTA’s should be reviewed and updated every two to three years.

Depending on when the results come in to our office from the testing provider, it’s typically less than 24 hours! If you have not received results for a candidate that was tested more than 48 hours prior, please call the IPCS office so that we can track the information and get you your results ASAP.

We are happy to assist our clients at any time in the interpretation of the results or reports provided. Please feel free to contact our office at 330-463-5757, option 6.

The Physical Strength Risk Assessment (PSRA) can be offered annually or it may be offered every one, two or three years depending on the Risk Rating. The Risk Rating is based on stratified risk. The individual will receive an overall risk rating of Low, Moderate or High. If a Low rating is received, the PSRA should be taken every 2-3 years. For a moderate rating, every 1.5 to 2 years, but for a high rating the PSRA should be taken every year. Ultimately the company makes the final call, but IPCS is willing to advise.

The IPCS testing process is evaluated and validated every two years by a prominent law firm with a national presence to ensure the technology is compliant with the EEO guidelines and that all of our forms are ADA compliant. Case studies have been presented and published in scientific and scholarly journals, clearly demonstrating the positive impact the IPCS technology has in reducing injuries in the workplace.