Canadian Resource Helps Users Prevent, Manage Disability and Return to Work

A website from the Quebec-based research organization IRSST focuses on the prevention and management of work disability, or “the inability to perform a work activity,” and return-to-work (RTW) processes. The information is intended for individuals who may be involved in occupational rehabilitation or RTW, including occupational hygienists, ergonomists, and members of occupational safety and health committees.

The site focuses primarily on musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and “common mental disorders” like anxiety and stress-related disorders, which IRSST explains are health problems that are most likely to be work-related. Site users will find practical resources, guidelines, and best practices aimed at helping them promote and support RTW in their workplaces. For example, occupational hygienists can find information to help them facilitate RTW for workers on sick leave and ideas for accommodations for workers with an MSD or common mental disorder.

IRSST describes RTW as a six-step process that includes time off and a recovery period, communication with the worker by the workplace, assessment of the worker’s capacity and job demands, development of a RTW plan with accommodation measures, RTW, and follow-up of RTW, which occurs in weeks following a worker’s return.

“This approach emphasizes the importance of evaluating the worker in relation to his or her work situation even before the implementation of workplace accommodations,” the RTW website explains.

The RTW website is freely available from IRSST. More information can be found in a news article published by the organization on Sept. 30.

IRSST is the Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail, which conducts and funds research intended to eliminate risk to worker health and safety. For more information, visit the IRSST website.