Common Work Restrictions for Firefighters and Police After a Work Injury

Firefighters and police officers face physically demanding, high-risk job duties. When an injury occurs, returning to full duty too quickly can worsen the condition and jeopardize both health and workers’ compensation benefits.

Doctors often assign common work restrictions for firefighters and police to prevent reinjury while the worker heals. That’s why work restrictions play such a critical role in recovery and long-term disability outcomes for first responders in California.

Understanding the most common restrictions, and how they affect your claim, can help ensure your rights are protected.

What Are Work Restrictions in California Workers’ Compensation?

Work restrictions are medical limitations placed by a treating doctor after a job-related injury. These restrictions are meant to prevent reinjury and allow safe recovery. They are legally binding within the workers’ compensation system.

For first responders, restrictions must reflect the real physical and mental demands of emergency service work (not just generic light-duty standards). You can learn more about how restrictions connect to disability in our guide on work restrictions and permanent disability in California workers’ comp.

Common Work Restrictions for Firefighters and Police After a Work Injury

Firefighters

Firefighters frequently experience orthopedic injuries involving the back, knees, shoulders, and neck. After such injuries, doctors often assign restrictions such as:

• No lifting over a certain weight (often 10–25 lbs)

• No carrying hoses, ladders, or equipment

• No climbing stairs or ladders

• No prolonged standing or kneeling

• No emergency response duties

Even a seemingly minor restriction can prevent safe participation in fire suppression or rescue operations. This is why disability considerations often follow long-term restrictions. Our broader explanation of work restrictions and disability in California workers’ compensation explains how these determinations are made

Police Officers

Police officers face a different set of physical and psychological demands. Common restrictions after an injury may include:

• No foot pursuits

• No defensive tactics or physical altercations

• No prolonged driving

• No firearm use if shoulder or wrist injuries exist

• Limited duty or desk assignment only

Psychological injuries such as PTSD may also result in restrictions from field work, high-stress assignments, or use-of-force roles.

Why Work Restrictions Matter in Workers’ Comp Claims

Restrictions are not just medical advice — they directly affect:

• Temporary disability eligibility

• Permanent disability ratings

• Return-to-work decisions

• Long-term benefits and career outcomes

If an employer ignores restrictions or pressures a return to full duty, it can worsen injuries and jeopardize claims. In such cases, injured workers may need a new evaluation or even a change of treating physician. The California Division of Workers’ Compensation provides guidance on medical treatment disputes and evaluations through its official resources at the Division of Worker's Compensation (DWC).

When Restrictions Become Permanent

If limitations remain after maximum medical improvement, they may become permanent restrictions — a key factor in determining permanent disability benefits. Disputes often require a Qualified Medical Evaluation (QME) to resolve differences between doctors and insurers. More information about QMEs is available through the DWC QME program.

Protecting First Responders’ Rights

Because firefighting and law enforcement duties are so physically demanding, work restrictions often have career-wide consequences. Having accurate medical documentation and experienced legal guidance ensures restrictions are respected and disability benefits are fair.

At West Coast Workers Comp Attorneys (WCWCA), we advocate for injured firefighters, police officers, and other first responders across California. We help ensure work restrictions are honored, medical care is appropriate, and workers receive the full benefits they deserve.

Call 415-218-5634 or visit our contact page to learn how we can help protect your rights.