April 1999
Reviewed: May 2009
Policy:
Montana State University is committed to providing a safe work environment for all employees. MSU will implement Early Return To Work - Modified Duty procedures which will allow employees who become injured or ill while on the job to return to work as soon as reasonably possible. It is recognized that returning to the work environment as soon as possible after an on-the-job injury or illness occurs has positive impact upon the healing process and is in the best interests of the employee and employer alike. Adopting a comprehensive ERTW-Modified Duty program will effectively manage workers' compensation costs throughout the institution and safeguard its most valuable resources: the skills, knowledge, and experience of our employees.
Employees must report all work-place injuries and work-related illnesses to their supervisor and Safety and Risk Management the same day of the accident or as soon as it is suspected that an illness is work related. Employees are required to advise their treating physician or other medical care provider that Montana State University provides Early Return To Work and/or Modified Duty opportunities.
Although there may be some variability, on a department by department basis, in how Early Return To Work and Modified Job opportunities are developed, the end result shall be consistent throughout MSU that every effort shall be made to provide these opportunities to employees. MSU Safety and Risk Management will initiate and maintain a process which incorporates input from throughout our institution to develop, implement and periodically review the ERTW-Modified Duty program.
The cooperation of individual supervisors plays a most significant part in the success of the ERTW-Modified Duty program. Supervisors shall identify and provide Early Return To Work and/or Modified Job opportunities for injured or ill employees whenever possible.
If you have questions regarding this policy, please contact Safety and Risk Management at (406) 994-1802.
