Can I Refuse Light Duty on Workers' Comp?: 1 Minute to Understand Your Rights and Options

When you’re recovering from a workplace injury, your employer may offer you “light duty” as part of the workers’ compensation process. Light duty typically refers to modified job tasks that fit within your medical restrictions, allowing you to work while continuing treatment. Legally, you can refuse a light duty assignment, but doing so may lead to consequences for your benefits. Most states require that if you turn down a reasonable light duty position that complies with your doctor’s limitations, your workers’ comp wage benefits could be reduced or stopped. If the offered work exceeds the restrictions set by your physician, you have a right to refuse and appeal. For employers, creating a safe and suitable light duty workspace isn’t just about compliance—it’s also an opportunity to rethink workstation layouts and ergonomics to support diverse recovery needs. As a designer, I always recommend reassessing the office environment, considering how thoughtful spatial planning and furniture selection can facilitate better reintegration for injured employees. If you’re thinking through how to optimize workplace layouts for injured staff, exploring solutions provided by a dedicated office layout planner can make the process more effective and compliant.

Tips 1:

Consult with your doctor before accepting or refusing light duty. Document all communications with your employer about your job assignments. If in doubt, seek legal advice to protect your workers’ comp benefits.

FAQ

Q: What is light duty work on workers’ comp?

A: Light duty is a modified set of tasks that fit within your medical restrictions, designed to get you back to work safely while recovering from injury.

Q: Can refusing light duty affect my workers’ comp benefits?

A: Yes. If you refuse a reasonable light duty assignment, your wage replacement benefits may be reduced or stopped, depending on your state’s laws.

Q: What if my employer’s light duty offer doesn’t match my medical restrictions?

A: You can refuse the assignment and should provide documentation from your healthcare provider to justify your decision. An appeal may be necessary.

Q: Can I negotiate the terms of a light duty job?

A: Absolutely. Talk with your employer about your restrictions and suggest adjustments to ensure the work environment supports your recovery.

Q: How can employers create effective light duty positions?

A: Employers should work with HR, medical professionals, and designers to develop appropriate roles and adjust the office with an office layout planner for both safety and productivity.