August 2021

Workers’ COVID concerns related to their work conditions, not disability status: study

People with both physical and mental health disabilities were the most concerned about their work, health and finances during the early part of the pandemic. That’s according to an Institute for Work & Health (IWH) study led by IWH Senior Scientist Dr. Monique Gignac. Notably, the study found concerns were linked to people’s work conditions, not to their health or disability status.

Read about the study

Emerging evidence on health risks of physical labour outlined in IWH presentation

Recent studies are suggesting physically demanding work can have negative effects on workers’ cardiovascular health—particularly among workers who are less fit or who have pre-existing cardiovascular conditions. In a recent IWH Speaker Series presentation, Associate Scientist Dr. Avi Biswas gave an overview of studies pointing to this “physical activity paradox,” including his own recent study on the paradox and risk of diabetes. Biswas also offered thoughts on what workplaces and policy-makers can do to address the emerging risks.

Read the presentation summary

This September, join global OHS leaders at the XXII World Congress on Safety and Health at Work

This is your chance to join leading experts and decision-makers in occupational health and safety (OHS) as they discuss the most important topics and trends affecting workers and workplaces now and in the future. From innovations in addressing long-standing hazards to creating a culture of prevention and much more, the XXII World Congress on Safety and Health at Work will offer insights, leading-edge practices and real-world solutions to make work safer. Co-hosted nationally by IWH, the 2021 World Congress takes place virtually September 20-23.

Register now

Thanks for your feedback! Results from our recent stakeholder survey now available

Last spring, we invited subscribers to IWH products, including this e-newsletter, to take part in a survey to gauge the level of trust in, and use of, IWH research and information. Our deepest thanks go to all of you who took part. A report sharing the results of the stakeholder survey, which we’re proud of, is now available on our website.

Read the article

IWH’s Systematic Review Workshop is back

Learn how to plan, conduct and communicate the results of a systematic review. The Institute’s popular Systematic Review Workshop is back. The program, to be delivered virtually and over two days this fall, is designed for clinical trainees, clinicians, academics and researchers who have an interest in the methodology of systematic reviews. Dates in October or November are being finalized. Email the workshop team to get updates or to be put on a registration list.

Contact the workshop team

New framework unveiled to evaluate mobility and handling training for PSWs

A new framework has been developed by client/patient handling community of practice composed of over 800 health-care providers, with the support of the Centre of Research Expertise for the Prevention of Musculoskeletal Disorders (CRE-MSD) and the Public Services Health & Safety Association (PSHSA). Evaluation of Mobility and Handling Training for Personal Support Workers (PSWs) is designed to help evaluate sit-to-stand training for PSWs. The framework is built around a restorative approach to providing care—i.e. one that promotes clients to do as much as they can for themselves.

Download the evaluation framework

Uyen Vu
Senior Communications Associate
613-979-7742
uvu@iwh.on.ca