Re: Health & Safety in work - person on crutches
I don't think its clear cut. It would depend on the situation. How mobile the person was, the pain level, and the job they do, and on site acess. Can they actually get to work. The suggestions above about getting the doctor to make a call, even contacting HR for an assessment are good.
I was on crutches for a while and returned to work after a week. Had to keep the foot up which was awkward at a desk. The commute was nightmare, got a lift in, but had to get buses/train home, especially on wet days wet floors al over were very tricky. Carrying anything even a cup of water/tea is impossible with crutches.
I also had the experience (different malady) of being sent home when in work as not insured onsite if covered by a sick note. In hindsight it was correct, I wasn't really well enough to be in work.