lightduty

Lightduty refers to work assignments, tasks, or jobs that place lower physical or cognitive demands on an employee who is temporarily or permanently limited in their ability to perform standard duties. Lightduty work is commonly used in occupational health, workers’ compensation, and disability accommodation programs to facilitate a safe and timely return to work after injury or illness and to accommodate chronic conditions.

Typical lightduty tasks involve reduced lifting or carrying, fewer hours on the front line, seated or desk-based duties, or the use of lighter tools and equipment. Restrictions are usually determined by a medical provider and agreed upon by the employer and employee. Lightduty may be temporary or permanent, and it may include modified schedules, different locations, or alternate tasks that match the worker’s capabilities while preserving essential job functions.

Implementation usually follows an assessment of the employee’s abilities, communication among the worker, supervisor, and occupational health staff, and documentation for workers’ compensation or human resources records. Employers may reassign or modify roles while maintaining compliance with safety standards and non-discrimination laws.

Benefits of lightduty programs can include reduced risk of reinjury, shorter disability durations, continued income, and retention of skilled workers. Potential drawbacks include job stagnation, perceived stigma, or misalignment with career goals if lightduty is used too broadly.

In practice, lightduty is one component of broader accommodation and return-to-work strategies, alongside prevention, ergonomic design, and workplace safety initiatives.