The idea, which has been tried in other cities, "is to see if people are engaged in activities that are inconsistent with their alleged disabilities," Radwanski said.
In Pittsburgh, where a similar crackdown was launched last year, investigators have taken footage of "disabled" workers bowling, dancing and working at strenuous second jobs. The campaign has been credited, in part, with reducing workers' compensation claims by 14 percent.
Announcement of the controller's efforts came on the heels of a county grand jury report Tuesday that found "serious defects" in the city's management of disability benefits.
But the planned video surveillance is actually part of a broader effort among officials to reform the city's work-injury program - which has been a growing drain on finances and a source of embarrassment.
"The system really does not work," said Deputy Controller David Volpe. ''It promotes abuse. And we're trying to find ways to improve it."
In addition to the video surveillance, the controller has contracted with an insurance adjusting firm that will work with city auditors to perform a comprehensive audit of the city's injury benefits system.
The $37,500 contract with Riley & Fleming of King of Prussia calls for the company to review cases, evaluate claims and compare Philadelphia's costs and methods with those of other cities. The firm is scheduled to report its findings by Oct. 31.
"Among other things, we'll be looking at how the systems are set up, how much they pay out, how are the decisions made and how much follow-up is done," said Gerald Micciulla, the controller's audit administrator, who will oversee the effort.
A chief goal, Volpe said, is to provide a blueprint of the Philadelphia disability system - and its weaknesses - for the next mayor and City Council, who would have to lead any reform effort.
