Disability Process

Assignment 5

The Sequential Evaluation Process

Apply SEP to the following fact scenario. Analyze whether the claimant can win disability. If you say he can win at the earlier step, you must still continue to analyze the later steps as well. If you say he does not meet the requirements for disability explain what will be needed to have him meet the requirements.

Johnny Superton is 58 years old and has attempted the 8th grade twice, but failed each time. He has worked full-time since he was 18 years old for the same employer. He was hired as a janitor. Later, he was promoted to custodial maintenance worker. Then he became custodial maintenance shift supervisor. In all his jobs, he performed the following janitorial duties: operate heavy machinery to buff and polish store, clean bathrooms, take out trash, dust, clean displays, clean registers, change light bulbs. As a custodial maintenance worker he did the previous duties plus he had to provide basic maintenance like unclogging sinks and toilets, and troubleshooting basic issues with store machinery. As custodial maintenance shift supervisor he assisted the custodial maintenance manager with training new hires and setting the schedule for the two other janitors. He would review the work of the janitors who would clean the store on his shifts. In all his jobs, he was standing, walking, and moving about over 75% of his work hours. He would lift and carry up to 25 pounds frequently and 50 pounds occasionally.

He injured himself while at home. He had climbed on his home’s roof to clean the gutters. A strong wind blew him off the roof and in a tragic accident; he crushed his legs and injured his back. His L5-S1 disc is burst and is now compressing on his nerve root. The pain is both localized at his waistline, but also radiates painfully down both legs. He feels intense pain in his legs. The doctor had to amputate his right leg from just below the knee due to an uncontrollable MRSA infection. His left foot was...