Longstanding work and health issues
Many longstanding issues related to work injuries and their consequences continue to negatively affect the lives and health of workers. For example, musculoskeletal injuries remain the leading cause of disability and discomfort among Canadian workers. Rates of workers’ compensation claims for traumatic fatalities have remained constant for the past decade. Persons with disabilities continue to be employed at lower rates, or in poorer work conditions, than those who do not live with a disability. Our research aims to provide new knowledge to help regulators and workplaces address persistent occupational health and safety (OHS) risks, workers’ compensation challenges and barriers to labour market inclusion.
Latest findings
Union firms have lower lost-time claim rates, study in ICI construction confirms
Five years ago, an IWH study found lower lost-time injury claim rates in unionized firms in Ontario's industrial, commercial and institutional construction sector. A new study uses more recent data to see if it can replicate the observed "union safety effect."
Cochrane back group earns high praise for its rigorous systematic reviews
Recent assessments of low-back pain research have give high marks to Cochrane Back and Neck systematic reviews, citing rigorous methods.
Rapid COVID-19 testing a potential game-changer in worker protection
Despite some limitations, rapid antigen detection tests may be important in the next phase of our response to this virus—including in work settings, writes IWH president Dr. Cam Mustard.Featured impact case study
After an IWH study filled a research gap on claim suppression in B.C. and helped make the case for change, the province amended legislation to strengthen protections against the practice.
Featured tool
A new tool helps workers with episodic health conditions think about—and ask for—the supports they need at work.
