Worker diversity and inclusion
The labour market in Ontario and across Canada is becoming more diverse. Greater attention to the labour market experiences of newcomers and recent immigrants to Canada is needed, as is greater attention to the ways race, age, gender and health status affect occupational health and safety (OHS) and disability management outcomes. Our research examines how our increasingly diverse workforce—racially, culturally and linguistically—affects OHS awareness, training and health outcomes. It also seeks to better understand the varied health and work experiences of workers with diverse health conditions and identities, and how workplaces can best support these workers.
Latest findings
How job training can better meet the needs of persons with disabilities
Job training initiatives are an important gateway to work opportunities, especially for persons living with disabilities who face persistent barriers to employment. A pair of IWH studies found three key areas where these skilling programs should focus.
Racial and ethnic inequities in the return-to-work process
In the first systematic review on racial and ethnic inequities in return to work, IWH found strong evidence that non-white workers are less likely than white workers to return to work following an injury or illness—and moderate evidence that Black workers face pronounced barriers.
Three future of work scenarios to help develop inclusion strategies for young people with disabilities
What do we need to do now to ensure the inclusion of young adults with disability in the future world of work? Using strategic foresight methods, an IWH team generated three future scenarios of the working world and their implications for persons with disabilities.Featured impact case study
Manitoba turns to an IWH tool to help newcomers learn about OHS and workers' compensation issues
Featured resource
An interactive tool designed to help youth and young adults with rheumatic illnesses as they enter the working world
