How to Return an Employee to Work After Non-Occupational Injury

It is not uncommon for employees to get injured and not be able to go to work. Many injuries are not work-related and happen on the employee's free time. For many, a broken leg or arm may impede an employee's ability to perform daily tasks. As a result, you as the employer must have a plan set in place to get the employee back on the job, being productive and safe. There are many things to consider when getting someone back to work after a non-occupational injury.

Instructions

• 1

  Review your employee handbook. A section should outline how to deal with employee injuries. Your handbook should conform to state labor laws. If there is no manual, look up the state labor laws. Generally, the employee must use any and all available sick days while out injured. A leave of absence may be required after this period to reduce costs to employers.

• 2

  Have the employee evaluated by a doctor. Employees who miss five consecutive days or more must be evaluated by a doctor to determine if they are able to perform the duties required of them on the job or not. In many cases, doctors will give the employee a list of limitations but still clear them for certain duties.

• 3

  Assign the employee to a work station that does not exceed their limitations. For example, if the employee has a broken leg, make sure they are at a station where they can sit and perform desk duties.