Identifying safe work duties can be done between you, your injured worker and their GP – it’s all about working together. In developing a return to work program, consider the following basic methodology:

1. List the worker's duties. Use a job description form (JDF) to help, or discuss with the worker and direct supervisor.
2. Describe the physical requirements of the job.
3. Check the physical restrictions described by the treating GP on the most recent progress medical certificate.
4. Determine which duties can be performed from the original list of duties.
5. Can duties be modified to eliminate the physical requirements which exceed the restrictions described by the GP?
6. Are alternative duties available in the short to medium term which may be added to the list of suitable or modified duties. Repeat 1 – 4 for alternate duties.
7. Discuss the supervision, reporting, training and safety equipment requirements of the work.
8. Once safe work duties have been identified, discuss the schedule or timetable of work. The duties and hours can be gradually introduced over a period of days, weeks or months, depending on the recommendations of the GP. The hours of work may be gradually increased.
9. Clearly document your return to work plan and confirm it with the GP.Return To Work Program Template Word Version - 37KB, 2 pages
   
   This template assists organisations to develop a return to work program for an injured worker.