Which factor is primarily considered when returning an injured employee to work?

The primary consideration when returning an injured employee to work is the ability to perform job duties safely. This factor is crucial to ensuring the well-being of the returning employee and their coworkers. An employer must assess whether the injured employee can safely execute their responsibilities without risking their health or the safety of others. This evaluation often involves obtaining medical clearance and understanding any physical limitations or accommodations needed for a smooth reintegration into the workplace.

While employee preferences and company policies play a role in the process, they should not override the primary concern of safety. The duration of the injury may influence the recovery process, but it does not directly address whether the employee is fit to return to their role. Thus, ensuring that the employee can perform their duties safely is the foremost criterion in the decision-making process for return-to-work policies.