Modified duty is a temporary restructuring and may include modification of essential or non-essential functions of the job, limitation of working hours, changes in working conditions or physical modification of the work place, according to Workforce.com.
Here are a few things to consider when you create modified duty task lists:
- A task is a piece or portion of an existing job
- Modified duty is transitional, meaning as your injured worker's work restrictions change, so should the tasks he/she is performing. The tasks should match the work restrictions.
- Remember, modified duty is intended to be a temporary position, not a long-term arrangement. It can be part-time or full-time, and may be at a reduced wage.
When you create a modified duty list, start by answering the following questions:
- What special projects need to be done?
- Are there tasks that an injured worker can do that would free up another employee's time?
- What tasks seem to pile up?
- Who in your company could benefit from temporary assistance?
- Does the injured worker have special skills or knowledge that could be of assistance elsewhere in the company?
Related materials available for order:
Employer's Guide to Cost Containment Certification booklet (English)
Certificación en Contención de Costos: Guía del Asegurado y Cuaderno de Trabajo (Spanish)