Unsatisfactory Work Case Scenario

In this case scenario, Julie is faced with a situation many employer’s encounter. There are multiple issues Julie must work through. It will be imperative that Julie have the ability to hear a case, obtain relevant information, make assessments, coordinate with those involved, outline a course of action, and execute and communicate the recommended course of action.

What really happened? Julie should ask what did the incident investigation reveal. Did Dan make a mistake that resulted in the hand injury? Was the accident caused by faulty equipment? What has been done to prevent this incident from happening again? Employees need to be assured through communication and action that their health and safety are the company’s first priority.

Hear the manager out. Julie should listen to Randy’s concerns about Dan returning to the workplace. Why does he feel Dan is unsafe to be in the workplace? What were his observations when he returned to work from leave the two previous times? What has his performance been like pre and post-accident? If there were in fact unsatisfactory work performance observations, has anyone addressed those? What accommodations does Randy feel he can support?
What were Dan’s complaints when he returned to work? Were there tasks that he was having difficulty performing then that he may still have difficulty performing now? What accommodations does Dan feel he needs to allow him to meet the expectations of the role. With an accommodation, does he feel he can meet job expectations? Does he have any safety concerns? If he does not feel he can meet the expectations of the role with or without an accommodation, is there alternative work available? Inquire if there are any other concerns outside of his hand injury that he feels may be a barrier to him returning to work and meeting the expectations of the job. Remind Dan of the EAP