Work Hardening Placement Program
This type of program allows an individual to gradually increase their tolerances for the work demands of the identified occupational goal over the course of several weeks. The specific type of work-site for the program is based on the vocational role to be performed, the client's functional status and the treatment objectives. Planning for the Work Hardening Placement Program takes into account the physical demands of the return to work role if that job still remains available or for a new vocational goal. In situations where the client’s presenting problems and level of functioning is well below the requirements for basic employability, a Work Hardening Placement Program can be developed with general rehabilitation goals.
The pre-placement portion includes program planning, searching for a work-site and preparing the individual to start the work placement. Preliminary education for relaxation, stretching, sleep hygiene and other pain management topics relevant to the disability issues are provided as needed. Interpersonal and assertive communication skills for the workplace can also be provided in this stage. We also conduct a meeting with the client and staff at the work-site to arrange the program at this stage.
The active portion of the placement program is closely monitored for daily attendance and progress towards the weekly goals. Ongoing communications with the work-site supervisor and the client are used to make adjustments to the frequency and range of work activities assigned. On-site sessions allow for direct observation of work behaviours and performance, frequency and duration of activities, and collection of any other relevant data. A cognitive-behavioural approach to the applied pain management strategies and techniques is utilized to manage the physical, cognitive and emotional demands of the workplace. Clients are also encouraged to utilize any other coping techniques learned in other previous treatments and clinical settings.
Work Hardening Placement Programs typically involve 8 weeks of active placement. These programs can be extended to maintain the functional gains made during this program while waiting for final arrangements for return to work in their pre-accident job or for other employment services to begin. Minimum commitment for starting a Work Hardening Placement Program requires attendance of 3 hours per day and attending 4 times per week as a starting point.