Many employers routinely hire private investigators to spy on workers who are collecting workers compensation. They sneak around trying to take photos of workers to prove that their injuries or disease are fake. If a doctor prescribes light exercise for a worker who is out with a back injury, that worker should get it in writing from the doctor. These private spies love to take photos of workers doing light work, such as raking leaves. They then use these photos to disqualify the worker or have them fired.
Many workers have part-time jobs.
Tell them to get written clearance from their doctor that it is all right for them to work their part time job. The doctor's note should say that the part- time work is such that it will not aggravate the injury. The steward may also have to let the worker know what their responsibilities are to the employer. In most states workers have to regularly update the employer about their condition and any expected return to work date. The steward should let the injured worker know this, BUT also urge the worker to report to the union any harassment he or she receives when reporting in to the employer.