A study on job placement for handicapped workers using job analysis data

Abstract The current study determined job titles which can be adequately performed by various types of disabled workers. These job titles were chosen based on their loading scores on a number of critical job elements derived from a factor analysis on job analysis data. The sample of jobs consisted of 1285 occupations from the Employment and Vocational Training Administration which were summarized into 112 job titles. For each job title, 41 specific variables, falling in three major classes (required education and experience, physical demands, task environment) were factor analyzed, using principal components analysis with Varimax rotation. The five-factor (occupational hazard, verbal communication education and training, visual acuity, body agility, and manual ability) solution explained 58.4% of the variance. Applying the hierarchical clustering procedure to the loading scores on the five job factors, the 112 job titles were classified into 15 homogeneous clusters. By mapping the loading scores on the five job factors and the handicap profile developed [Bragman, R., Cole, J.C., 1984], job titles which can be adequately performed by the visually impaired, wheelchair dependent, learning disabled, mental retarded, hearing impaired and individuals with emotional disturbance can be classified. The results can be utilized by the Employment and Vocational Training Administration to expand both the counselor and counselee's perspectives about job possibilities and job requirements. Relevance to industry A classification scheme of job titles was proposed for screening job titles which can be adequately performed by various types of disabled workers. The results can help to expand the perspectives about job possibilities and job requirements for handicapped workers.