What does "modified duty" refer to in relation to workers' compensation?

"Modified duty" refers to light-duty work that is assigned to an employee who is recovering from a work-related injury. This arrangement allows the employee to return to work in some capacity while accommodating their limitations and ensuring that they do not exacerbate their injury during recovery. The purpose of modified duty is to support the employee's rehabilitation process by keeping them engaged in the workforce and providing an income, even if it is not at the level of their usual full-time responsibilities.

By placing an employee on modified duty, employers can often reduce the duration of the employee’s absence from work, which can benefit both the employee's morale and the overall productivity of the workplace. This approach also contributes to a smoother transition back to regular duties once the employee is fully recovered.