What is a Temporary assignment of work?
When a worker is unable to resume his duties due to a work accident or an occupational disease, the employer can assign him other tasks while waiting for the worker to recover.
A study has shown that about 50% of the employees who have suffered occupational injuries (work accidents or occupational diseases) will return to work after 6 months of absence. However, this number decreases as the absence continues: 20% and 10% after 1 year and 2 years respectively.
The temporary assignment of work must be put in place in accordance with the Act respecting industrial accidents and occupational diseases (AIAOD) and with the prior consent of the doctor.
The temporary assigment of work is valid upon the approval of the doctor:
The worker is reasonably able to perform this work;
this work does not pose a risk to the health, safety and physical well-being of the worker, taking into account his injury; and
this work is favorable to the rehabilitation of the worker.
Both parties (the worker and the employer) stand to benefit. Among other things, this facilitates for the worker a gradual return to work, maintains the wages and other employment benefits, and allows the acquisition of new skills related to the temporary work. The employer can thus retain the expertise of his workforce, maintain a productive work environment and reduce costs related to the occupational health and safety system.
The CMIPQ offers its expertise about the Temporary assignment of work. Do not hesitate to contact its OHS management team or to assist to one of the following webinars (only in French):