Work is about much more than a pay cheque. Work gives us an identity, a sense of self and self-worth.
The longer employees are off work, the less likely they are to return. That’s why a timely and safe return to work, with transitional work as part of the recovery plan, is so important for both workers and employers.
Why it's good for workers:
- Helps you recover
- You won’t lose as much—or any—of your earnings
- Helps you stay active
- Helps minimize the impact on your family
- Allows you to focus on what you can do, not what you can’t
- It helps with your social, mental, and physical health and wellbeing
- Helps you stay connected with co-workers in the workplace
- Keeps you involved in your employee benefits programs
- Contributes to your confidence and sense of value
- Provides a sense of normalcy.
Learn more about safe transitional work.
Why it's good for employers:
- Keeps a skilled and experienced employee connected with the workplace
- Maintains productivity
- Reduces WCB claims costs, which can reduce your premiums
- Ensures communication between you and your employee
- You won’t have the cost of recruiting and training a new worker
- Reduces the risk of similar injuries by identifying and addressing the hazard that caused the injury
- Supports workplace morale
Learn how to create a Return-to-Work Program.
Safety and Return-to-Work Planning Saves Money
While injury prevention is the best way to keep workers safe, putting an effective return-to-work program in place is the best way to manage the impact of an injury. Safely working while recovering by providing transitional work is the cornerstone of a successful return-to-work program. WCB case workers, along with the worker, employer and service provider all play important roles in a timely and safe return to work.
WCB Nova Scotia is entirely funded through employer premiums, so reducing injuries and effective return-to-work planning when an injury occurs is the best way to reduce your premiums.