What is the difference between fitness for duty and return to work assessments?

The distinction between fitness for duty assessments and return to work assessments is pivotal in understanding their specific roles in workplace health and safety. Fitness for duty assessments are designed to evaluate an individual's capability to perform their job safely and effectively, particularly in the context of physical and mental health. This process determines whether an employee can meet the essential functions of their role at that moment, ensuring that they are fit to engage in their work tasks without posing a risk to themselves or others.

In contrast, return to work assessments focus on an employee's readiness to resume their job following a period of absence, typically due to illness or injury. This evaluation considers whether the employee has recovered enough to participate in their previous role and if any accommodations or modifications are necessary for their reintegration into the workplace.

Therefore, the core difference lies in the objective: fitness for duty assessments are proactive evaluations of job capabilities, while return to work assessments are reactive, aimed at ensuring employees who have been away from work are prepared to return safely and effectively.