Download the form here on our FAE services page.
Quick Overview:
The Functional Abilities Form (FAF) is a tool used by the Treasury Board of Canada to assess an individual’s functional abilities in the workplace. It helps determine their suitability for specific job tasks and identifies any accommodations that may be required. Here are five key facts about the FAF:
1. Purpose: The primary purpose of the FAF is to ensure that employees with disabilities or limitations can perform their job duties effectively and safely. It aims to promote inclusivity and equal opportunities in the workplace.
2. Assessment Process: The FAF involves a comprehensive assessment of an individual’s physical, cognitive, and psychosocial abilities relevant to their job requirements. This assessment is conducted by qualified healthcare professionals or occupational therapists.
3. Job Demands Analysis: To accurately assess functional abilities, it is essential to have a clear understanding of the specific demands of each job position within an organization. A detailed job demands analysis helps align employee capabilities with job requirements.
4. Accommodation Recommendations: Based on the information gathered through the FAF, healthcare professionals provide accommodation recommendations tailored to each individual’s needs. These recommendations aim to remove barriers and enable individuals to perform essential duties effectively.
5. Legal Compliance: By using the FAF as part of their disability management process, employers demonstrate compliance with legal obligations under human rights legislation such as Canada’s Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA).
FAQs:
Q1: Who should complete the Functional Abilities Form?
A1: The FAF should be completed by qualified healthcare professionals or occupational therapists who have expertise in assessing functional abilities related to employment.
Q2: Is there a standard format for completing the form?
A2: Yes, there is a standardized format provided by Treasury Board Secretariat that includes sections for capturing personal information, medical history, current functional limitations, recommended accommodations, etc.
Q3: Are employers obligated to implement all recommended accommodations?
A3: Employers have a duty to accommodate up to the point of undue hardship. They should carefully consider and implement reasonable accommodations recommended in the FAF, but if an accommodation poses significant difficulty or expense, they may explore alternative solutions.
Q4: Can employees refuse to complete the Functional Abilities Form?
A4: Employees are generally required to cooperate with their employer’s disability management process, which may include completing the FAF. However, individual circumstances and privacy rights should be considered when requesting participation.
Q5: How often should the Functional Abilities Form be updated?
A5: The frequency of updating the FAF depends on various factors such as changes in an employee’s condition or job requirements. It is generally recommended to review and update the form periodically or when there are significant changes that impact functional abilities.
BOTTOM LINE:
The Functional Abilities Form is a valuable tool for assessing an individual’s functional abilities in relation to their job requirements. By using this form, employers can ensure inclusivity in their workforce while complying with legal obligations. The accurate assessment provided by qualified professionals allows for appropriate accommodations tailored to each individual’s needs, promoting productivity and safety in the workplace.