Workers injured in the "course and scope" of employment have reinstatement rights and are considered a "protected class of worker." Think twice before you decide you have no light duty. Accommodation may be necessary under FMLA or ADA laws.

Flexible return-to-work programs keep working adults working while providing valuable productivity to the employer. Many employers discuss modified work opportunities at Safety Committee meetings or request tasks from other department heads to develop light duty tasks in two-week increments.

Insurance company statistics estimate an aggressive return-to-work program can reduce the cost of an employer’s insurance policy by 1/3 to 1/2 over time-freeing budget funds for enhancing benefit programs and funding wellness and other preventative activities.