When an employee gets hurt at work, they may not be able to return to their regular job right away. Many employers offer “light duty” work so the employee can stay on the job while recovering. Understanding how light duty pay works under workers’ compensation can help employees know what to expect during this stage of healing.
What light duty means
Light duty refers to temporary tasks assigned to an injured worker that fit within medical restrictions. Instead of the usual duties, the employer may assign office work, reduced lifting, or fewer hours. The goal is to let the employee contribute without risking further injury. Light duty is usually a short-term arrangement until the worker can return to normal job functions.
How pay is calculated
The pay for light duty depends on the difference between the new wages and what the employee earned before the injury. If light duty pays less than the regular job, workers’ comp typically makes up part of the gap through “temporary partial disability” benefits. This ensures that the employee does not suffer a major financial loss while recovering. If light duty pays the same as the pre-injury wage, additional benefits may not apply.
Why employers use light duty
Employers benefit from light duty because it keeps injured workers connected to the workplace. It also helps maintain productivity and may speed up recovery by keeping employees engaged. For workers, light duty provides income stability and a smoother transition back to full duties once cleared by a doctor.
Light duty assignments serve both employees and employers when managed properly. They allow injured workers to stay active, maintain income, and gradually return to their normal responsibilities. When light duty pay is structured fairly, it supports recovery and reduces stress during a difficult time.