Identifying suitable duties
Workers must be consulted in the development of their suitable
duties programs (SDP). Return to work is more likely to be
successful if the worker is involved in the process. Ask the worker
for their ideas and negotiate if there are different points of
view. It's a good idea to have a meeting with the worker, their
supervisor and other relevant parties.
It's helpful to be aware of the timing of suitable duties for part
time or shift workers. These workers may have organised their
routine to take into account child care, the care of other
relatives or study. When trying to identify suitable duties ask
yourself:
- What are the tasks the worker usually carries out?
- How are these tasks carried out (methods, techniques and
processes)?
- What are the skills, knowledge and abilities needed to carry
out the usual role?
- Is the task performed for a short period of time or a long
period of time?
- Does the task occur frequently during the working
day/week?
- Can the task be done independently from other tasks?
- Can the task be safely performed by one person?
- Does the task have a quality standard?
- Is the work environment unusually hot or cold? Is this
safe for the worker?
- Is the worker taking medication that might affect their
concentration?
How to develop a successful
SDP
You should use a range of tasks and techniques to encourage return
to work. Where possible, give injured workers duties that are part
of their normal job as this helps to reinforce they are still a
valued team member. Using usual job tasks where possible also
minimises the need for re-training.
Successful SDPs have the following characteristics - they:
- match skills and physical abilities of the worker
- promote reasonable levels of worker job satisfaction
- have minimal impact on a worker's personal life
- have minimal impact on a worker's earnings/career path
- promote worker self-esteem and psychological well-being
- offer value to both the worker and employer
- have a similar level of prestige and status as previous
duties
- do not pose risk to or exacerbate the injury
- support a gradual return to work.