ELEMENT

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

1 Establish and promote rehabilitation program

1.1 Policies are developed and procedures are put into place to support an effective and equitable rehabilitation process.

1.2 Short and long-term plans for return to work and non-return to work rehabilitation are established in consultation with relevant stakeholders.

1.3 Written permission is obtained where necessary from employees for council contact with medical authorities.

1.4 Education of staff about rehabilitation objectives is undertaken.

1.5 Professional expertise is sought to ensure appropriateness of return to work tables and activities.

1.6 Confidentiality principles are incorporated into systems.

2 Establish and implement a return to work program

2.1 Communication occurs with all relevant individuals and departments to ensure understanding of the proposed rehabilitation plan for injured worker.

2.2 Limitations of the worker and performable duties are clearly documented and distributed to relevant employees and departments.

2.3 Appropriate training opportunities are identified and provided where suitable duties are new to the employee.

2.4 Return to work is scheduled within realistic time frames consistent with medical advice.

2.5 Confidentiality principles are strictly adhered to.

3 Monitor the return to work program

3.1 Work situation is monitored to ensure that work provided does not impinge on injury.

3.2 Injured employee is consulted regarding ongoing suitability of work provided.

3.3 Detailed notes of contacts, discussions and all factors relevant to the case are compiled.

3.4 Compensation management is monitored.

4 Maintain records

4.1 Information is recorded in accordance with council and legislative requirements.

4.2 Details are recorded clearly, accurately and legibly.

4.3 Records are secure, accessible and up to date.

This describes the essential skills and knowledge and their level, required for this unit

Required Skills

consultation with and counselling of management and employees

provision of advice to council and employees

assessment of injured employees

Required Knowledge

occupational health and safety and workers compensation legislation

rehabilitation policy and procedures

council strategic objectives

confidentiality policy and procedures

record keeping procedures

Overview of assessment requirements

A person who demonstrates competency in this unit will be able to perform the outcomes described in the Elements to the required performance level detailed in the Performance Criteria. The knowledge and skill requirements described in the Range Statement must also be demonstrated. For example, knowledge of the legislative framework and safe work practices that underpin the performance of the unit are also required to be demonstrated.

Critical aspects of evidence to be considered

Rehabilitation systems are established.

Return to work program is established, implemented and monitored.

Context of assessment

On the job or in a simulated work environment.

Method of assessment

The following assessment methods are suggested:

observation of the learner performing a range of workplace tasks over sufficient time to demonstrate handling of a range of contingencies

written and/or oral questioning to assess knowledge and understanding

completion of workplace documentation

third-party reports from experienced practitioners

completion of self-paced learning materials including personal reflection and feedback from trainer, coach or supervisor.

Evidence required for demonstration of consistent performance

Evidence will need to be gathered over time across a range of variables.

Resource implications

Access to a workplace or simulated case study that encompasses a range of rehabilitation situations and outcomes and includes simulated roles of relevant parties.

The Range Statement relates to the Unit of Competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Bold italicised wording in the Performance Criteria is detailed below.

Rehabilitation may include:

modified workplace

redesigned job tasks

worker retrained for another position

return to work

non-return to work

Rehabilitation process may include:

injury reporting

first aid

arranging for medical or other treatment

completing necessary forms

liaising with medical professionals

maintaining contact with injured employees

determining suitable duties and processes when returning to work

monitoring and upgrading rehabilitation

Relevant stakeholders may include:

council managers and staff

unions

medical experts

insurance agencies