Return‐to‐Work Programs and Light Duty Assignments: Employee Rights vs Employer Pressure

When an employee is hurt on the job in California, one of the first questions that arises is when and how they can return to work. Employers and insurers often promote “return-to-work” programs or offer “light duty” assignments designed to bring injured workers back as quickly as possible. While these programs may be intended to reduce costs, they can also create pressure on employees to accept assignments that may be unsafe, inappropriate, or inconsistent with their medical restrictions.

At Hanning & Sacchetto, our Whittier workers’ compensation attorneys believe injured workers deserve clear, accurate information about their rights. This blog explains how return-to-work programs function under California workers’ compensation law and what rights employees have when offered light-duty work.

What Are Return-to-Work Programs and Light Duty Assignments?

California law encourages employers to bring injured workers back to their jobs when possible. A return-to-work program is an employer’s effort to reintroduce injured employees into the workplace, often in modified roles. Light-duty assignments are a common component of these programs.

A light-duty assignment may involve:

• Performing less physically demanding tasks than usual.
• Working reduced hours.
• Avoiding specific activities, such as lifting, bending, or operating machinery.
• Temporary changes in job responsibilities based on medical restrictions.

While these accommodations can sometimes benefit workers by keeping them connected to the workplace, they can also be misused to pressure employees into returning before they are ready.

Employee Rights Under California Law

State workers’ compensation laws protect injured workers in California and cannot be forced to accept unsafe assignments.

The key protections include:

• Medical Authority. Your treating physician, not your employer, determines your work restrictions and whether you can return.
• Right to Refuse Unsafe Work. If the assignment does not comply with your medical restrictions, you have the right to decline without losing your benefits.
• Anti-Retaliation Protections. It is illegal for your employer to fire, demote, or punish you for exercising your rights under workers’ compensation law.
• Reasonable Accommodation. Employers are required to provide reasonable accommodations under California law and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) when possible.

If you are pressured into returning to work before you are medically cleared, it is essential to consult with a workers’ compensation attorney immediately.

How to Respond to Unsafe or Inappropriate Assignments

It can be intimidating to push back against an employer who insists you return to work. However, you do not need to accept unsafe or inappropriate assignments.

The best steps include:

• Request written details. Ask your employer to provide the light-duty assignment in writing, including the specific tasks and expectations.
• Compare with medical restrictions. Provide the assignment to your doctor and ask whether it is consistent with your restrictions.
• Communicate in writing. If you must refuse, explain clearly—preferably in writing—that the assignment does not comply with medical restrictions.
• Contact an attorney. Our workers’ compensation attorney can step in to protect your rights and ensure your benefits continue.

These steps protect both your health and your claim, creating a clear record of why the assignment was not appropriate.

Why Legal Guidance Matters

Employers and insurers have strong financial incentives to bring employees back to work quickly. Unfortunately, this can result in workers being pressured into accepting unsafe or unfair assignments. Without legal representation, many employees are unaware that they can refuse unsafe work or claim wage loss benefits when light-duty pay is lower.

At Hanning & Sacchetto, our workers’ compensation attorney stands up for injured workers who are navigating the return-to-work process. We ensure medical restrictions are respected, fight back against employer pressure, and make sure clients receive every benefit they are entitled to under California law.

Protecting Injured Workers in California

Returning to work after an injury is an important step, but it should never come at the expense of your health or your rights. If you are being pressured to accept a light-duty assignment, contact Hanning & Sacchetto today at (562) 358-5380 or online. Our Los Angeles County workers’ compensation attorneys will review your case, explain your options, and protect your right to fair treatment.