LIGHT/MODIFIED DUTY
THE IMPORTANCE OF LIGHT DUTY WORK
A part of a cost-effective Workers’ Compensation program is returning injured
employees to work as soon as they are medically able, even with restrictions. Examples
of light-duty work include having the employee work shorter hours, perform some job
duties or different duties with light physical demands (a modified job), or perform a
different job temporarily.
Keeping an injured employee connected to the workplace by providing light modified
work during recovery will not only provide a positive impact to your employee but to
your district.
WHAT TO DO IF THERE ARE RETURN TO WORK RESTRICTIONS
Determine if there is work available within the restrictions given by the medical
provider (See list of potential light duty jobs for examples)
Speak with the employee about the light/modified work available. Notify the employee
that the light/modified work is a temporary position which will allow them to transition
back into their normal job duties while they recuperate from their injury.
Require the employee provide you with the return to work status note within 24 hours
after each doctor visit.
Each return to work status note needs to be reviewed by the supervisor for any changes
in the work restrictions. The supervisor will then need to make a determination if light
duty continues to be available.
Any changes to the light/modified work should be discussed with the employee and
reported to ESD 112.
Contact ESD at 1-800-749-5861 immediately to report:
 The is employee is unable to return to work due to his/her injury, OR
 The employee has returned to light modified work within the restrictions, OR
 The employee has returned to full, regular work, without restrictions