One year of Duty to Cooperate: accountability in action

Nova Scotia workers and employers are benefitting from a system that is more accountable, thanks in part to Duty to Cooperate legislation introduced by the Nova Scotia Government one year ago today as part of the Stronger Workplaces for Nova Scotia Act.

Duty to Cooperate helps define roles for those who support a successful return to work after a workplace injury, including workers, employers, and our own WCB team. 

Because of this legislation, we’re seeing more success stories where workers are getting back to work sooner.

Recently for example, an employer did not think they were able to accommodate a worker with a broken foot, even after they had been cleared for sedentary work.

After we worked with the employer to identify safe and suitable modified duties, the worker returned at regular hours and full earnings nearly two months before being cleared for unrestricted weight-bearing activities. 

Duty to Cooperate has enabled us to have better conversations with workers and employers, leading to better outcomes. 

Before the legislation came into effect last year, 76% of workers returned to work within 90 days. Today, 82% are returning to the workplace within the same timeframe thanks to a more accountable system where everyone is committed to safer workplaces and helping more Nova Scotians stay connected to work after an injury. 

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. 

Learn more about how Duty to Cooperate is helping more people return to work sooner and safer: Understanding Duty to Cooperate| WCB Nova Scotia

WCB team members like Justin Sperdakes help employers find practical accommodation solutions to facilitate return-to-work success.