From Construction Injury to Productive Recovery
How Workplace Rehabilitation Helped a Carpenter Return to Work Safely: When an Injury Impacts More Than Physical Health
Workplace injuries can have significant consequences for both workers and employers. Beyond the immediate physical injury, there are concerns around lost productivity, project delays, financial pressures, and uncertainty regarding recovery and return to work outcomes.
In a recent case, Caliso assisted an one experienced carpenter following a serious shoulder injury on a construction site which threatened both his livelihood and confidence in returning to his trade.
The Challenge
Michael, a 42-year-old carpenter, sustained a rotator cuff injury while lifting formwork materials. Following surgery, he was unable to perform overhead work, lifting, carrying, or many of the tasks that formed part of his normal duties.
The employer faced several challenges:
Staffing shortages on active projects
Increasing workers compensation costs
Concerns about maintaining productivity
Uncertainty about suitable duties during recovery
Michael was concerned about his future employment and whether he would be able to continue working in construction.
Our Solution
One of Caliso’s workplace rehabilitation consultants became involved shortly after surgery and worked closely with:
Michael
His treating surgeon
Physiotherapist
Employer
Insurer
The consultant completed a workplace assessment and identified alternative duties that aligned with Michael's medical restrictions.
Duties initially included:
Site safety inspections
Toolbox talk preparation
Procurement and stock management
Site documentation and quality assurance checks
A graduated return to work plan was developed, progressively increasing hours and physical demands as recovery improved.
The Outcome
Within 6 weeks:
· Michael returned to work on reduced hours
· Confidence and physical capacity steadily improved
· The employer retained an experienced worker
· No replacement recruitment costs were incurred
· The claim duration was significantly reduced
· After 6 months, Michael successfully resumed his pre-injury role with full duties.
Key Takeaway
Early workplace rehabilitation enabled direct and worthwhile liaison with treating parties, meaningful work during recovery, maintained worker engagement, and reduced claim costs while supporting a safe and successful return to work.