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Ensuring only suitable duties are assigned to a worker returning to work after completing work rehab is a very important part of supporting a worker’s full recovery.

What is meant by ‘Suitable Duties’ in Relation to Work Rehab?

In certain circumstances, some injuries may mean it is not safe, or possible, for an employee to do the tasks that are part of their normal job after going back to work upon completion of their work rehab program.

In such a case, if possible, the employer needs to find other work for the employee to do. This is called ’Suitable Duties’, also referred to sometimes as ’Alternative Duties’. The employer will consider their staff member’s skillset and experience when it comes to finding other, suitable job tasks for them.

What does our Suitable Duties, Return to Work Assessment Program Involve?

Workcom’s Rehabilitation Consultants all have considerable experience in designing and implementing comprehensive Suitable Duties Programs to ensure the success of a Claimant in returning to work after illness or injury. This requires detailed analysis of the physical and psychological demands of suitable duties being offered by an Employer and matching these with the physical and psychological capacity of the Claimant.

The Workcom Consultant will also liaise with the allied health professionals treating the Claimant, as well as with treating Doctors and Specialists to confirm the Claimant’s capacity is in line with the requirements of the suitable duties offered.

The success of such a program also requires detailed discussions with the Claimant to determine their readiness for return to work, any barriers that may be encountered, as well as working with the Employer to ensure they are fully supportive of the Claimant’s return to work and the program.

The Workcom Consultant will continue to work closely with all stakeholders to keep them informed of improvements so that the Claimant can gradually progress the hours they work and then the difficulty of the work tasks they complete, in line with their improved capacity. This continuous liaison ensures all stakeholders are aware of the progress and any barriers that are encountered so that they can be addressed in a timely manner.

What are the Benefits for Employees?

  • Able to keep up a routine.
  • Still have income coming in while they get better.
  • Regain self-confidence in their work and gradually improve their condition.
  • Possibility of improving their skills in a certain area, or possibility of learning new skills.

What are the Benefits for Employers

  • Effect on the insurance premium is reduced.
  • Removes the need to train new staff, which uses extra resources.
  • Level of expertise and skills in your team isn’t diminished, or is strengthened.

Find out more about how we can help by calling us on 1300 654 425. Our services are provided Australia-wide.