A Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE) is a structured clinical assessment that measures an individual's physical capacity to perform work-related tasks. It is typically used in return-to-work planning after injury or illness, workplace accommodation design, disability assessment, and pre-employment fitness screening for physically demanding roles. FCEs are delivered by chartered physiotherapists and involve standardised physical tests including lifting, carrying, reaching, postural tolerance and task simulation. The output is a detailed report suitable for medical professionals, employers and insurers. In Ireland a standard FCE assessment takes 2 to 3.5 hours and produces a written report; the engagement requires occupational-health input, the job description, and the participant's informed consent.
FCEs differ from ergonomic assessments in that they focus on the worker's physical capacity rather than the workstation. They are clinical assessments delivered by chartered physiotherapists, not by ergonomists.
Common use cases are return-to-work after back, shoulder or knee injury; workplace accommodation planning for chronic conditions; objective disability evaluation; and pre-employment fitness screening for physically demanding roles.
FCEs require occupational health referral or input, a written job description, and the employee’s informed consent before the assessment.
Reviewed by our specialist ergonomics team. Last updated 11 June 2026.
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