SOP-ADM-5 Light Duty Assignments Administration Division
SOP-ADM-5
Issued: 8/24/2023
SUBJECT: LIGHT/MODIFIED DUTY
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PURPOSE AND SCOPE
To establish standard procedures for light/modified duty assignments and standards for those
performing them. The goal of this policy is to create consistency across the organization with how
light/modified duty assignments are handled.
This SOP is designed to give employees clear direction on light/modified duty assignments. It cannot
anticipate every possible scenario and it may be necessary to deviate from it based on circumstances.
The decision to do so should be made by the Chief or designee.
PROCEDURE
I. General Guidelines
A. The goal of the organization is to provide temporary reasonable accommodation to
employees with physical and/or mental restrictions, regardless whether the injury is
industrial or non-industrial.
B. Light/modified duty assignments of one week or less may take place on the employee’s
regular workdays and shift, except for the Fire Division. Light/modified duty assignments of
more than one week will take place Monday through Thursday, generally dayshift hours.
Some deviation in time may be facilitated with the employee’s direct supervisor for the
light/modified duty assignment. More than a few hours of deviation from dayshift or changes
in workdays need to be approved by a Deputy Chief.
C. Employees working light/modified duty assignments will dress in business casual attire.
Employees will not normally go out in public for their work assignments. Anytime the
employee does go out in public (lunch, break, court), the employee will not wear anything
indicating association with the department, and if carrying a firearm, it will be concealed and
carried in accordance with department policy. Employees may wear department outerwear,
such as sweatshirts and jackets, while in the station when working light duty. Other clothing
options may be necessary based on assignment or restrictions, in which case they must be
approved by the immediate supervisor.
D. Employees may not drive marked Department of Public Safety vehicles while on
light/modified duty, unless they are designated as out of service. If the employee will be on
light/modified duty for more than 14 days and have a take-home vehicle, they must make
arrangements with their supervisor to have the vehicle returned. If an employee’s normal
assigned vehicle is an unmarked car, they may continue to drive it to and from work. An
employee will not be assigned an unmarked car because they are on light/modified duty,
unless the details of their assignment dictate it. An employee who was previously assigned an
unmarked vehicle may have that vehicle reassigned while they are on light duty based on
organizational needs.
E. Employees working a light/modified duty assignment will be given a direct supervisor for
their assignment, preferably one working similar hours to the employee. Any changes in
assignment or restrictions will be communicated through that supervisor.
F. Employees who are completely off work on 4850 will not conduct any City business or be
present at any City facility without supervisor approval.