If you are a business owner in Illinois or other Midwest locations, consider creating a return-to-work policy. These guidelines allow injured employees to return to work by offering them short-term light-duty job tasks.
Benefits of developing a return-to-work policy for your company
Your exact business determines what type of light duties may be available to sick or injured employees. Your company benefits by controlling the cost of absenteeism. Current employees often know how to do tasks they never get time to do, so this can allow you to get those tasks done that never seem to come off the list. Getting those tasks completed may increase productivity within your company. Furthermore, you can continue a great relationship with valued employees while they are recovering.
Benefits of a return-to-work policy for the employee
Research shows that injured employees who take advantage of a return-to-work policy heal faster. They need the positive environment of your workplace, instead of sitting around at home where it is easy to become depressed. Employees on return-to-work programs still earn a paycheck to take care of their obligations.
Who should help set up your return-to-work policy
You need a written return-to-work policy outlining who is eligible and under what circumstances. Since this policy affects workman’s compensation, you can rely on their expertise. In order to achieve this goal, talk to:
- Employee representatives
- Human resource professionals
- Medical personnel
Employees with injuries or sicknesses who have filed a workman’s compensation claim can return to work on light-duty assignments that last only a short time. There are benefits for your company and the employee when you allow them to return under a return-to-work program developed by medical professionals, employees and corporate officers.
