MaterialHandler.pdf

U.S. BUREAU OF CUSTOMS AND BORDER PROTECTION

MATERIALS HANDLER

SUMMARY OF THE MEDICAL STANDARDS AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

The physical and medical requirements for the Materials Handler position are based on the strenuous and potentially hazardous nature of the duties typically performed. Any medical or psychiatric condition may result in the candidate s medical disqualification under certain circumstances. Such circumstances exist when: the condition would affect the ability of the individual to safely and efficiently perform the essential functions of the position, recurrence of the condition cannot be ruled out, and/or performance of the position s duties is likely to result in harm to self or others. The Bureau of Customs and Border Protection determines an individual s medical suitability for the position and does so on a case by case basis.

Description of Physical Requirements and Environmental Conditions The Materials Handler s duties include, but are not limited to, the receiving, processing and loading and unloading of shipments. The Materials Handler is required to move and transport boxes, crates and other supplies from one location to the next. The position requires the ability to lift up to 70 pounds on a recurring and sometimes repetitive basis.

It requires the ability to lift heavier equipment with assistance from others or from lifting equipment such as forklifts. The employee is often expected to stand on hard surfaces for extended periods of time and to work in uncomfortable and tiring positions. He/she is required to be able to bend, stoop, twist and reach, often repetitively. The individual may be required to work at a rapid pace.

The Materials Handler position requires the individual to operate a variety of machines, including computer equipment, power tools and vehicles and to do so safely and efficiently. Motor vehicles which the individual may be expected to operate range in type and size, up to a four-ton truck. The position requires that the individual maintain a valid state driver s license. A valid state forklift operator s license is also required as the employee is expected to be able to operate a forklift that can carry objects weighing 6,000 pounds to heights of 162 inches. Reasonable written and oral communications skills are also expected.

The position s duties are performed inside and outside in areas that may involve extremes of temperature and other adverse environmental conditions. The workplace may be poorly lighted and/or ventilated and have slippery and irregular ground surfaces. There may be exposure to hazardous and toxic materials including but not limited to radiation, explosives, chemical fumes and dirt, dust and grease. The employee is regularly exposed to the possibility of cuts, scrapes, bruises, abrasions, burns, falls, and other injuries from falling objects, collisions and shifting and overturning loads. Work may require wearing protective clothing such as hardhats, steel-toed shoes, masks and rubber gloves and aprons. The individual may be expected to work in solitary conditions and/or as a member of a team.

The position requires the employee to perform overtime as needed and to work irregular and alternating shifts, sometimes on an emergency basis.

Draft 04/21/06