What is a light duty job?

A light duty job is a job that has been modified for an employee who has been injured on the job and requires accommodations in order to continue working. Usually, an employer will allow a worker to work in a lighter-duty capacity, such as reduced hours or hours of a less strenuous nature than their regular job. Many employers designate certain positions as light-duty, or even create new positions for an injured employee. In Washington, when an employee is injured on the job, they are entitled to receive workers’ compensation benefits from their employer, such as medical care and wage replacement, which can include a modified return-to-work plan. Depending on the severity of the injury, the employer may agree to a lighter duty workload or hours, even if they do not designate any specific positions as light-duty. By providing accommodations, the employer is helping the employee to stay productive and prevent further injury, while still protecting their own interests. Employers who offer light-duty options also typically assume reduced risk of liability in the event that the injured worker is unable to return to their regular job, since they have provided appropriate accommodations.

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What is a light duty job?

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