Vol. 1, Issue 1, Part A (2025)

The return-to-work (RTW) process following surgery is critical for ensuring both the health of the worker and the productivity of the organization. Traditional clinical assessments often fail to adequately predict a worker's readiness for RTW, leading to premature or delayed returns that may increase the risk of re-injury or long-term disability. This study aimed to develop and validate a comprehensive workplace simulation model designed to objectively assess post-surgical workers' readiness to return to their job. The model integrates biomechanical, ergonomic, and cognitive demands specific to various occupations, simulating real-world work tasks such as lifting, carrying, and multitasking. A total of 120 participants, including those recovering from orthopedic, musculoskeletal, and abdominal surgeries, were assessed using both traditional clinical evaluations and the newly developed simulation model. Descriptive statistics, test-retest reliability, and inter-rater reliability were calculated for the simulation model, which demonstrated high reliability (ICC = 0.89) and moderate agreement with clinical assessments (κ = 0.41). Additionally, a strong negative correlation was found between simulation readiness scores and actual RTW days (r = -0.62), indicating the model's ability to predict RTW timing. The study concluded that the simulation model offers a more accurate, reliable, and ecologically valid assessment of RTW readiness than traditional clinical tools, providing valuable insights into the worker's functional capacity. The model is recommended for use in clinical and occupational settings to inform RTW decisions and minimize the risk of reinjury or work disability. Future research should focus on enhancing the model's applicability across different industries and demographic groups to increase its generalizability and effectiveness in diverse workplace environments.