Certified ergonomist observing a worker performing a physical task in a clean, well-lit industrial setting, representing a Physical Demands Analysis in progress

Physical Demands Analysis

Objective, on-site assessments to support hiring, accommodation, and return to work

What is a Physical Demands Analysis?

A Physical Demands Analysis (PDA) or Job Demands Analysis (JDA) is a detailed, objective assessment of the physical and cognitive requirements of a specific job. Conducted by a certified ergonomist, this analysis provides essential data to support safe hiring practices, return-to-work planning, and injury prevention strategies.

What’s Included in a PDA/JDA

Each assessment includes an on-site visit and results in a comprehensive report. The process involves:

  • Interviews with employees, supervisors, or managers

  • Measurement and documentation of essential job tasks

  • Quantification of physical demands such as:

    • Lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling

    • Reaching, climbing, and walking distances

    • Required postures and force levels

  • High-quality photographs of job tasks and equipment

  • A detailed, electronic report summarizing all findings

Workplace scene showing a certified ergonomist using measuring tools and a clipboard while observing a worker lifting equipment, illustrating components of a Physical Demands Analysis

Who It’s For

Our Physical Demands Analysis services are ideal for organizations committed to creating safer, more inclusive, and legally compliant workplaces. We work closely with:

  • Human Resources professionals seeking accurate job descriptions and defensible hiring criteria

  • Return-to-work coordinators developing modified duties and reintegration plans

  • Health and safety teams identifying and mitigating ergonomic risks

  • Disability management specialists supporting accommodation and WSIB documentation

  • Operations and compliance managers ensuring job roles align with physical capabilities

Whether you're in manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, or government, our PDA services provide the clarity and confidence your team needs to make informed decisions.

Why It Matters

A PDA or JDA is a valuable tool for:

  • Job Matching – Aligning job requirements with a worker’s abilities or limitations

  • Return-to-Work Planning – Supporting modified duties and safe reintegration

  • Injury Prevention – Identifying ergonomic risks and recommending improvements

  • WSIB Submissions – Providing documentation for claim adjudication or accommodation

  • Hiring & Recruitment – Including objective job demands in job postings

Diverse group of professionals including HR, safety, and return-to-work coordinators reviewing a Physical Demands Analysis report in a modern office setting.

Service Areas

We proudly serve clients across Ontario and Québec, offering both English and French services. Our ergonomists are available for on-site assessments in:

  • Ottawa – Supporting federal and provincial agencies, healthcare, and tech sectors

  • Toronto – Serving corporate offices, industrial sites, and public institutions across the GTA

  • Gatineau – Providing bilingual services to government and private sector clients

  • Oakville & Mississauga – Supporting growing businesses and regional employers

  • Hamilton – Partnering with manufacturing, logistics, and healthcare organizations

 
 
Worker performing a physical task with proper ergonomic technique in a clean, well-lit warehouse, promoting safe practices and Physical Demands Analysis services."

Book a Physical Demands Analysis

Ensure your job descriptions are accurate, compliant, and ergonomically sound.