Occupational Requirements Survey (ORS)
Overview
National survey collecting job requirements data for the Social Security Administration’s disability benefit determinations. Replaces the outdated Dictionary of Occupational Titles (last updated 1991).
Key Data Categories
- Physical demands - strength levels, postures, manipulation, lifting/carrying
- Environmental conditions - temperature, noise, hazards, outdoor work
- Education, training, and experience - minimum education, credentials, SVP
- Cognitive and mental requirements - people skills, interaction patterns
Methodology
- Probability-proportional-to-size sampling of approximately 75,000 establishments
- Field economists conduct interviews with establishment representatives
- Uses Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) system
- Produces percentage-of-workers estimates per requirement
Primary Purpose
SSA disability evaluations require comparing claimants’ functional abilities with job demands as they exist nationally. Steps 4-5 of the sequential evaluation process need current occupational data, which the DOT could no longer provide.