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Frequently Asked Questions about Job Modifications
What is a job modification?
A job modification is an adjustment or alteration to the way a job is performed. The modification may be temporary during recovery or permanent. Employers can make job modifications independently of the Department of Labor & Industries (L&I). Some workers may be eligible for an L&I benefit assisting with a job modification.

When does L&I offer financial assistance with job modifications?
For eligible workers, L&I will provide financial assistance with job modifications. For these workers, L&I may pay for a consultation and special equipment or tools so that the worker can return to their job or a new job.

Why should a job be modified?
Modifying a job helps an injured worker return to work more quickly. It typically decreases time-loss and long-term disability.

Who is eligible for the L&I benefit?
A worker may be eligible for the L&I benefit if:
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The worker has an open and allowed claim, and The worker is off work or was taken off work in the past, and The attending heath-care provider placed restrictions on the worker that prevent them from doing their regular or new job.

Can you give me some examples of job modifications?
A worker developed carpal tunnel syndrome as a result of frequently gripping small pliers during mechanical work. His restrictions include reducing the amount of force he uses to grasp tools. Using pliers designed with larger and longer handles will reduce the force. A worker with a back injury who has lifting restrictions has to manually lift boxes off of a conveyor onto a pallet. The worker may benefit from a mechanical lifting device. Manual lift Mechanical lift

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What is the process for requesting the L&I benefit?
Contact the claim manager to request a consultation on the job modification. Any existing work restrictions must be identified at the time of the request. A number of involved parties may request a job modification consultation: the attending healthcare provider, employer, consulting health-care or vocational service provider, claim manager, thirdparty administrator or the worker.

Who decides what type of modification L&I will pay for?
If the request for a consultation is approved, a consultant will work with the worker, employer, and attending health-care provider as needed to identify an appropriate job modification.

Who is the consultant for job modifications?
Typically, the job modification consultant is a physical or occupational therapist, a vocational service provider, an ergonomic consultant, or a member of the employer's staff. Vendors who supply equipment for the modification may not provide the consultation without prior approval from the claim manager.

Who owns equipment purchased by L&I as part of a job modification?
Either the employer or the worker may own the equipment or tools L&I purchases as part of a job modification. Both parties must sign an agreement specifying ownership. Typically the employer will own non-portable items and items that are bolted to the work site.

How does L&I pay for job modifications?
For eligible workers, L&I pays up to $5,000 per claim per job site. The benefit is paid out of the SecondInjury Fund. Use of the job modification benefit does not directly affect the employer's industrial insurance (workers' compensation) premiums. Self-insured employers may request reimbursement for equipment and tools from L&I's Self-Insurance section.

How can I get more information about L&I's job modification benefit?
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Visit L&I's Web site at www.Lni.wa.gov/ ClaimsIns/Providers/Vocational/Tools/PreJob/ default.asp Call the assigned claim manager, or Call the L&I office nearest you and ask to talk with the Regional Supervisor.

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L&I Regional Offices
Northwest Washington (Region 1) Bellingham Everett Mount Vernon 360-647-7300 425-290-1300 360-416-3000 Southwest Washington (Region 4) Aberdeen Longview Tumwater Vancouver 360-533-8200 360-575-6900 360-902-5799 360-896-2300

King County (Region 2) Bellevue Seattle Tukwila 425-990-1400 206-515-2800 206-835-1000

Central Washington (Region 5) E. Wenatchee Kennewick Moses Lake Yakima 509-886-6500 509-735-0100 509-764-6900 509-454-3700

Pierce County/Peninsula (Region 3) Bremerton Port Angeles Tacoma 360-415-4000 360-417-2700 253-596-3800

Eastern Washington (Region 6) Colville Pullman Spokane 509-684-7417 509-334-5296 509-324-2600

8 On the Web: Visit the L&I Web site at www.Lni.wa.gov
Other formats for persons with disabilities are available on request. Call 1-800-547-8367. TDD users, call 360-902-5797. L&I is an equal opportunity employer.

PUBLICATION F245-057-000 [04-2008]