Tips for Developing a Successful Return-to-Work Program

For an employer, return-to-work programs help retain skilled workers, improve productivity, and lower workers’ compensation premiums through lower claim costs—helping the business stay competitive and minimizing workflow disruptions.

November 18, 2025 | Contractor

Each year, employers in private industry report about 2.6 million workplace injuries and illnesses according to the most recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. For small businesses that are already navigating labor shortages and high project demands, lost time due to an injury or illness can create additional challenges. Workers’ compensation insurance helps ensure employees have access to needed medical care while providing a portion of lost wages during recovery.

Having an effective return-to-work program—which allows employees to transition into light-duty or modified work when medically appropriate—can also play an important role in supporting both workers and employers.

For employers, return-to-work programs may help retain skilled workers, support productivity, and potentially reduce claim costs, which can influence workers’ compensation premiums over time. These programs also help maintain continuity on the jobsite and limit workflow disruptions.

For workers, returning to a supportive environment when the treating provider approves modified duties may help maintain morale, reduce isolation, and support recovery. Staying connected to coworkers and maintaining routine can help limit skill loss and provide additional financial stability during the healing process.

Here are five tips to consider when developing a return-to-work program:

1. Provide a safe environment for returning employees.

A safe and well-managed workplace is essential for any successful return-to-work plan. Ensuring the jobsite or modified-duty area supports the employee’s medical restrictions helps create an environment where recovery can continue without added strain.

2. Create a list of specific transitional tasks.

Maintaining a list of potential light-duty tasks allows the treating provider to evaluate what can be performed safely. These tasks may include administrative work, tool or equipment organization, jobsite documentation, safety inspections, or other less strenuous duties. Keeping this list updated may help reduce downtime and make the process more consistent across projects.

3. Delegate responsibilities clearly.

Identify who will oversee the return-to-work program, who will monitor the employee’s duties, and who will check on progress. Many employers find it helpful to develop a workflow or communication document so expectations are clear and consistently followed across the company.

4. Train supervisors involved in the process.

Supervisors play a key role in a worker’s safe transition back to the job. Providing them with training—especially on how to support work restrictions and communicate with injured employees—helps ensure the program is followed correctly and respectfully.

5. Reach out to the employee early and often.

Regular communication can make a meaningful difference. Many employees want to remain connected to their workplace while recovering. Early outreach helps reinforce that they are valued and that the organization is committed to supporting them through the process.

Your workers’ compensation insurance carrier may also offer resources to support return-to-work planning, including accommodations for situations where employers cannot meet an injured worker’s physical restrictions. For example, Acuity provides a transitional return-to-work program that helps bridge the gap between an employee’s temporary capabilities and available job duties by coordinating volunteer-based temporary work with local nonprofit organizations.

This type of support may help employees stay active and engaged while easing their transition back to regular duties when they are medically cleared.

If you’re looking to strengthen your return-to-work program or explore additional options, consider connecting with your Acuity agent or claims representative. They can help you review available resources and determine what solutions may best fit your organization.

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