As of today, July 15, Nova Scotia’s new Duty to Cooperate legislation is in effect. This change means that workers injured on the job – and their employers – must now actively work together with WCB to support a safe and timely return to work.
This requirement is part of the Stronger Workplaces for Nova Scotia Act and aims to improve outcomes for both workers and employers by strengthening the return-to-work process.
Employers are expected to:
- Maintain open communication
- Offer meaningful accommodations
- Collaborate with workers and the WCB throughout the return-to-work process
Workers are expected to participate in planning their return, including identifying and accepting safe, suitable work where possible.
“Research, experience and common sense all tell us the same thing: when it’s safe to do so, staying connected to work helps people recover faster and more fully,” says CEO Karen Adams. “Duty to Cooperate is about ensuring no one goes through recovery or return to work alone.”
Supporting workers to recover and return to work safely sits at the core of this legislation. If an employer or worker does not cooperate, there is the risk of fines for employers and loss of benefits and compensation for workers. However, this is a last resort and WCB is here to work with employers to support return-to-work efforts.
Nova Scotians see better physical, emotional, and financial outcomes when they’re connected to work during recovery. For employers, it keeps valuable workers engaged, supports morale and retention, reduces claim costs, and increases productivity.
WCB has worked with thousands of employers, workers, labour groups, and health care providers over the past several months to prepare for this change, offering webinars, tools and resources to support workplaces.
Read the news release.