Active support from IHS managers at all levels of the organization is necessary for effective implementation. Each Area and Service Unit Director will be asked to identify staff members to serve on a workers' compensation management team. The team will consist of a personnel liaison case manager, a safety officer, and an employee health specialist. Area and Service Unit Directors are encouraged to work with local or Area physical therapists to conduct back injury prevention training, provide or coordinate rehabilitation therapy, and evaluate progress. Effective implementation will require trained staff.
Supervisors play a key role in a successful workers' compensation and safety management program.
Counseling employees about OWCP rights and responsibilities. Identifying tasks that may be accomplished as a light duty assignment. Training employees in safe workplace practices. In cooperation with the safety officer, developing or improving safe work practices. Headquarters will establish an Area and Service Unit chargeback mechanism for FECA claims.