Return to Work
Return to Work (RTW) is a structured program that facilitates an injured or ill worker's safe, timely and sustainable reintegration into the workplace through modified or transitional duties.
What Is Return to Work?
A Return to Work (RTW) program outlines how employers support injured or ill workers in getting back to productive, safe employment. Early and safe RTW benefits everyone: the worker maintains income and purpose, the employer retains trained talent and experience rating costs are controlled.
RTW Principles
- Early contact: Reach out to the injured worker promptly and maintain regular communication.
- Medical collaboration: Work with the treating physician to understand functional abilities and restrictions.
- Modified duties: Offer transitional work that accommodates medical restrictions.
- Gradual progression: Increase duties and hours incrementally toward full return.
- Documentation: Record every step of the RTW plan, including medical clearances, duty modifications and worker feedback.
Legal Context
In Canada, employers have a duty to accommodate injured workers to the point of undue hardship. RTW programs must comply with workers' compensation legislation and human rights requirements.
Manage RTW Digitally
Make Safety Easy tracks RTW plans, modified duty assignments, medical clearance dates and worker progress - creating a clear record of accommodation efforts for WCB and legal compliance.