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
Workers exposed to common hazards more likely to report their injuries: IWH study
Building upon research showing high rates of under-reporting, an IWH study explores factors linked to whether workers report their injuries to a workers' compensation board.
Understanding challenges in hospitals’ workplace violence reporting systems
How consistently and reliably are hospital violence incidents reported in Ontario? An IWH research team surveyed workers at six hospitals in the province in 2017. Despite mandatory reporting, the results showed great variation in reporting patterns.
Urban-rural differences in work disability duration
We know from past studies that injured workers in rural areas are likely to be off work longer than injured workers in cities. Now, a study on urban-rural differences in work disability across several provinces and industrial sectors finds a more nuanced picture.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.
