First and foremost, any injured worker should receive immediate care by a medical provider. Then, the workplace accident should be internally investigated to identify what caused the accident and what should be changed to prevent future accidents. That said, an employer should always obtain a detailed, written release from the doctor before returning any employee to work. Usually, it is as simple as that. If the doctor’s release includes work restrictions, however, the employer should offer the employee a modified work assignment that accommodates the restrictions, indicating that the employee will perform the modified duties until a release to full duty is received by the attending physician.

It should be specific, signed and dated by all parties. Giving an employee light duty is a positive reinforcement to return the worker to his/her pre-injury position while balancing the need for medical follow-up visits. Every employer should have a Return to Work program. Workers’ Compensation laws vary by state so make sure you are familiar with your state’s requirements.