Work Restrictions Letter Alberta
A work restrictions letter documents specific limitations on what you can and cannot do at work due to a medical condition. Unlike a full absence note, a restrictions letter allows you to continue working while protecting your health.
Common restrictions include no heavy lifting, limited standing, reduced hours, or avoidance of specific tasks. In Alberta, employers are required to accommodate medical restrictions to the point of undue hardship under the Alberta Human Rights Act.
Work Restrictions vs. Modified Duties
These terms are closely related but have a subtle difference. A work restrictions letter specifies what you cannot do (no lifting over 20 lbs, no standing for more than 30 minutes). A modified duties letter recommends what you should do instead (desk work, light duties, reduced hours).
In practice, many employers use these terms interchangeably. Our physicians can provide either type of documentation, or a combined letter that specifies both restrictions and recommended modifications.
Common Work Restrictions
Our physicians commonly document these types of restrictions: lifting limitations (no lifting over 10/20/50 lbs), standing/sitting limitations (must alternate every 30-60 minutes), repetitive motion restrictions (limited typing, no repetitive bending), cognitive limitations (reduced screen time, quiet environment needed), schedule restrictions (maximum 6-hour shifts, no overnight shifts), and environmental restrictions (no extreme temperatures, no dust/fume exposure).
Your Legal Rights
Under the Alberta Human Rights Act, your employer has a legal duty to accommodate your medical restrictions to the point of undue hardship. This means they must make reasonable adjustments to your role, schedule, or work environment based on your physician's recommendations.
If your employer refuses to accommodate documented medical restrictions, you may have grounds for a human rights complaint. Having a clear, physician-signed restrictions letter is your first line of protection.
How Long Do Restrictions Last?
Work restrictions are typically temporary. Your physician will specify a review date, usually 2-4 weeks from the date of the letter. At that point, you can request an updated letter (either extending the restrictions or clearing you for full duties).
If your condition is chronic or long-term, the physician may recommend a longer restriction period or suggest a workplace accommodation letter instead.
Getting Your Restrictions Letter
Complete our online intake form describing your condition, your job duties, and what activities cause you difficulty. A CPSA-registered physician will review your information and issue a restrictions letter specifying appropriate limitations. Most letters are delivered within 1-4 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between modified duties and work restrictions?
A restrictions letter specifies what you cannot do. A modified duties letter recommends what you should do instead. In practice, many employers use these terms interchangeably, and our letters can address both.
Can my employer ignore my restrictions?
No. Under the Alberta Human Rights Act, employers must accommodate medical restrictions to the point of undue hardship. If they refuse, you may have grounds for a human rights complaint.
How long do restrictions last?
The physician will specify a review date, typically 2-4 weeks. Restrictions can be extended or removed based on your recovery progress.
Can I get restrictions for a mental health condition?
Yes. Mental health conditions can warrant work restrictions such as reduced hours, quiet workspace, flexible scheduling, or avoidance of high-stress tasks.
Do I need to tell my employer what's wrong with me?
No. Your restrictions letter specifies your limitations without disclosing your diagnosis. Your employer only needs to know what accommodations are required, not why.
Work restrictions letters are issued only when clinically appropriate after physician review. Restrictions are based on the physician's assessment of your reported condition and job requirements. For workplace injuries, WCB documentation is required instead.
Get Work Restrictions Letter — $49