Return-to-Work Management (BEM) is a legally required procedure for reintegrating employees after prolonged illness. It is regulated in §167 Para. 2 SGB IX.
Legal Obligation
BEM is mandatory when employees:
- Within 12 months
- Were incapacitated for more than 6 weeks (42 days)
- Continuously or repeatedly
Goals of BEM
- Overcoming incapacity for work
- Preventing renewed incapacity
- Preserving the job
- Avoiding early retirement
Process
- Contact by employer
- Invitation to BEM meeting (voluntary!)
- Initial meeting for situation analysis
- Measure planning developed jointly
- Implementation of agreed measures
- Evaluation and follow-up
Voluntary for Employees
- Participation is voluntary
- Refusal without negative consequences
- Data protection is maintained
- Works council/trusted person can participate
BEM and Mental Illness
Especially important for mental illness:
- Sensitive conversation
- Destigmatization
- Adaptation of working conditions
- Connection to risk assessment