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How to prevent the problem

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tipbulb While a minority of people are not able to return to their usual job, most are. Some approaches help return employees to normal jobs.

 

How to prevent the problem

A minority of people are not able to return to their usual job. But most are. A range of approaches help return employees to their normal jobs.

Company policy

A clear policy commitment to return employees to pre injury tasks is a solid platform. A policy that is available to all staff, is acknowledged and recognised will carry more weight.

Staff are then aware of the expectations, what the company will do to assist and the support services that are available.

Providing support and flexibility

A range of management approaches can support the employee get back to their usual tasks:

1.Can the job be modified to accommodate the person's problem? For example, use a platform to prevent the need to lift overhead. Install a conveyor to avoid the need to lift the goods. Rotate the job more frequently. Get the employee's input regarding any needed job modifications.
2.Train the supervisor in basic ergonomics, so that appropriate modifications can be understood and implemented early.
3.Short term needs are accommodated quickly.
4.Staff are valued and the contribution made through their normal job is appreciated. They are one of the team and want to return to their best abilities to continue contributing.  

Focus on return to usual tasks

A sensible sustained focus will produce the best outcome. Such a focus will show up:

1.In discussion
2.In employee expectations
3.In return to work plan
4.In checking that progress is being made in returning to the normal job

 

If progress has stalled

 

1.Seek an independent medical opinion regarding capacity. (Examples: Letter to doctor and job description for RTW  plan)
2.Ask the treating doctor about what can be done to assist getting the employee back to their normal job
3.Further strategies include:
•Discuss the situation openly with the employee
•Identify barriers to return to normal duties
•Identify practical ergonomic changes
•Discuss with the supervisor
•Discuss options with the treaters

 

book_next What's next?
Injury management, disability management and rehabilitation - what are they?