Post by rkline on Sept 13, 2012 15:21:37 GMT -5
Due to the manner in which OSHA calculates lost work time, or "DART - Days Away, Restricted or Transferred", those attempting to return to active duty from a work-related illness or injury, or from a light duty assignment, should ask the releasing physician to specify the next possible date to return to work; not the next day you're scheduled to work.
Example: Friday, I cut my hand and receive stitches. Doc sends me home and writes a return-to-work for my next shift, Monday, because that's the next day I would normally work. Under the current system, Saturday and Sunday count as two lost or "away" days, even though I wasn't scheduled to work. It may be the doctor really wants me off during this time, and that's perfectly acceptable. Or, it may be a case where the doctor isn't really thinking from an HR point of view, and could safely release me to work the next day, regardless of whether I'm scheduled.
Bottom line: The methods in which physicians submit return-to-work notices significantly impact our OSHA record keeping. Ask physicians to clarify when you can safely return to work.
Roy
Example: Friday, I cut my hand and receive stitches. Doc sends me home and writes a return-to-work for my next shift, Monday, because that's the next day I would normally work. Under the current system, Saturday and Sunday count as two lost or "away" days, even though I wasn't scheduled to work. It may be the doctor really wants me off during this time, and that's perfectly acceptable. Or, it may be a case where the doctor isn't really thinking from an HR point of view, and could safely release me to work the next day, regardless of whether I'm scheduled.
Bottom line: The methods in which physicians submit return-to-work notices significantly impact our OSHA record keeping. Ask physicians to clarify when you can safely return to work.
Roy