Performance Testing

IEN magazine, December 1994, p.52

WHAT'S NEW

December Spotlight

DAILY SKILL TEST SYSTEM
checks hand-eye coordination in under 1 min

A computer game-like device that weeds out employees impaired by
drugs or alcohol has been devised by Performance Factors. Before the
work-day begins, Factor 1000 tests a worker's judgment and response time
through his or her ability to manipulate a cursor on a computer screen.
Each exam is measured against the employee's personal base line score
established in an earlier test. By checking hand-eye coordination, the
test is less intrusive and cheaper than urine testing and is also effective
in detecting impairment from stress and fatigue.

The employee enters an identification number onto a pad to the far
left of the control panel to initiate the test, the screen comes up, and he
or she presses a red button to begin. The object is to keep the diamond
centered as it tries to move to each side of the screen. The employee
turns the silver knob left or right to correct the erratic movement of the
diamond, which becomes more and more unsteady. As the swaying becomes more
extreme, the corrections become trickier. The test ends when the diamond
hits into either the left or right boundary, usually 30-60 seconds into the
test. The computer compares present and past performance and indicates a
passing or failing mark. It is up to each company to establish policies
regarding a failing grade.

"Random drug testing in the workplace is getting a lot of attention
lately, much of it negative," says Performance Factors Vice President,
Terry Watson. "Many employees and union leaders believe it is inaccurate,
costly, and an invasion of privacy. Factor 1000 tests whether the worker
is impaired at the time he or she is being asked to perform a job -- it
doesn't judge off-the-job behavior."

Performance Factors
Golden, Colorado
(800) 944-8944

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