It’s been shown that people who return to work as soon as is safely possible following an injury generally recover faster. Remaining connected to — and feeling valued by — their workplace goes a long way toward helping recovering workers stay engaged and avoid feeling stuck at home.

By Kieran Joyes

A strengthened connection also supports a healthier and safer workplace for everyone.

“Staying connected is a proven way to strengthen your health and safety culture,” says Chris Back, director of WorkSafeBC’s Occupational Health and Safety Consultation and Education Services. “That sense of connectedness goes a long way to foster a culture of health and safety and ensures everyone in the workplace is participating in each other’s well-being.”

That’s why WorkSafeBC has launched a multi-phased outreach campaign aimed at raising employers’ awareness of the benefits of employer connection during recovery and return to work.

“Since employers are often the first point of contact with an injured worker, they are central to shaping the return-to-work journey,” says Kathleen Achenbach, director of Return to Work Services at WorkSafeBC.

The campaign encourages employers to focus on key steps to reach the best possible outcome if someone does get injured:

• Reach out right away after an injury to inquire about their well-being and offer support.
• Maintain consistent, meaningful contact throughout their recovery. For example, if an injured worker is not ready to return to work, depending on their injury and stage of recovery, consider including them in staff meetings, special events, training, and even coffee with co-workers to keep them involved.

WorkSafeBC is reaching out to employers to raise awareness about the new tools and resources being developed to help them support their workers as best they can. The outreach also features a short video on the benefits of staying connected and a live Stay Connected webinar on the impact of meaningful connection. For more information on recovery and return to work, please visit Employers: Return-to-work information.

This information originally appeared in the November/December 2022 issue of WorkSafe Magazine. To read more or to subscribe, visit WorkSafe Magazine.