Returning to work after an injury can be challenging, especially when medical limitations prevent employees from performing their usual duties. Light duty work restrictions allow injured employees to continue working in a modified capacity while they recover. These restrictions help employees maintain financial stability while ensuring their health and safety.

However, not all light-duty assignments comply with medical recommendations, and some employers may pressure injured employees into performing tasks beyond their physical limitations.

What Are Light Duty Work Restrictions?

Light duty work restrictions refer to job modifications that accommodate an injured worker’s medical needs. A healthcare provider determines these restrictions, and may include:

• Lifting restrictions (e.g., no lifting objects heavier than 10 pounds)
• Limited physical activities (e.g., no prolonged standing, bending, or repetitive movements)
• Reduced work hours (e.g., part-time shifts instead of full-time)
• Alternative job assignments (e.g., clerical work instead of physically demanding labor)

Employers who offer light-duty work must ensure that employees are not required to perform tasks that exceed their medical restrictions. Workers may need legal representation if they are pressured to engage in physically strenuous tasks that could worsen their condition. To learn more about protecting your rights after an injury, visit our Personal Injury page.

Are Employers Required to Offer Light Duty Work?

Maryland employers are not legally required to provide light-duty positions for injured workers. However, if an employer does offer light-duty work that aligns with the employee’s medical restrictions, the employee is typically required to accept it. Refusing a valid light duty assignment could result in losing workers’ compensation benefits.

That said, employees are not obligated to accept a light-duty position if:

• The assigned work exceeds their medical restrictions.
• The job substantially differs from their original position, affecting wages or career progression.
• The employer is forcing them to return to work before their doctor has approved it.

If you believe your employer is not following medical recommendations or is unfairly pressuring you to return, a Waldorf personal injury attorney can help evaluate your legal options. You can also learn more about your rights by contacting the Law Office of Robert Castro, P.A., for legal guidance.

Benefits of Light Duty Work

When applied correctly, light duty work benefits both employees and employers. For employees, it provides financial stability during recovery and reduces the risk of long-term unemployment. Remaining in the workplace supports rehabilitation by maintaining structure without risking further injury. If an injured worker encounters issues with their assigned duties, parking lot accident attorneys in Waldorf, MD, can help uphold their rights.

For employers, offering light-duty work lowers workers’ compensation costs by reducing lost wage payments. It also helps maintain productivity by keeping experienced employees engaged in modified roles. Providing proper accommodations fosters a positive work environment and demonstrates a commitment to employee well-being.

However, some employers assign tasks that exceed medical restrictions, which can delay recovery or lead to further injury. If a worker is pressured to exceed their limitations, they may need legal assistance. More information on handling these situations can be found on our Contact Us page.

What If an Employee Cannot Perform Light Duty Work?

Some injuries are too severe for an employee to return to work in any capacity. Due to medical limitations, employees who cannot perform light-duty work may be eligible to remain on temporary total disability benefits under workers’ compensation.

However, insurance companies and employers may dispute these claims, arguing that light-duty options are available. If your benefits are at risk due to a dispute over your ability to work, legal representation can help. Our Case Results page shows how we have successfully helped injured employees recover the benefits they deserve.

If your employer or insurance provider pressures you to return to work against medical advice, consult a hit-and-run accident lawyer, Waldorf MD, to protect your rights.

Legal Protections for Injured Workers on Light Duty

Light duty work restrictions are intended to support injured employees, but when employers misuse them, they can put workers at risk. If you have concerns about your light duty assignment, workers’ compensation benefits, or legal rights, the Law Office of Robert Castro, P.A. can help. With over 50 years of collective experience, our firm fights to ensure injured workers receive fair treatment. Contact us today to discuss your case and protect your rights.