Return to work, accommodation and support
IWH has a long history of conducting research on practices, policies and processes that help workers sustainably return to work after an illness or an injury. This page pulls together IWH research and resources on employer supports, job accommodations and modifications, as well as other related issues such as disclosure of disability.
Featured
At Work article
Injured workers face mental health challenges beyond diagnosable conditions
Workers with a work-related physical injury that takes them off the job can have a wide range of mental health experiences, beyond diagnosable conditions. That’s according to an IWH study which also found that differences in injured workers’ mental health were linked to return-to-work outcomes.
Published: April 9, 2025
Research Highlights
Examining four types of job disruptions due to a health condition, and the differences expected when workplace support needs are met
Job disruptions are common among workers living with chronic physical and/or mental health conditions, an IWH study has found. The study investigated the effects of workplace supports had on four types of job disruptions.
Published: March 11, 2025
Impact case study
Ontario WSIB rolls out new service delivery model
Agency turns around rise of long-duration claims with a new model informed by IWH research.
Published: October 2010
Impact case study
WSIB turns to IWH for its expertise in logic models
Institute scientists work with WSIB to provide ongoing evaluation of three important programs.
Published: September 2010
Impact case study
WSIB launches anti-stigma initiative
Community research project involving injured workers identifies stigmatizing attitudes as a problem.
Published: September 2010
Project
Project
Prognostic factors for time away from work among workers with chronic low-back pain: a systematic review update
Status: Completed 2017
At Work article
At Work article
Benchmarks help firms compare disability management practices
Several major Canadian firms have joined a collaborative to create benchmarks of their disability management approaches, with the goal of improving practices and saving money. The collaborative, which builds on the success of a similar American initiative, is based at the Institute for Work & Health
Published: April 2007
Research Highlights
Research Highlights
Whiplash after traffic accidents can lead to depression
Symptoms of depression appear to be relatively common after whiplash injury. They occur soon after the incident and can be persistent, especially if patients have a history of depressive symptoms.
Published: January 2007
Tools and guides
Seven “Principles” for Successful Return to Work
This popular guide outlines seven principles that the research shows are associated with workplace practices that can help ensure the successful return of a worker after injury or illness.
Published: January 2007
At Work article
At Work article
IWH research adds to body of knowledge on MSDs
It wasn’t always evident that changing a worker’s posture or reducing time on certain tasks could prevent painful soft-tissue disorders. Over the past two decades, these connections have been established through research. IWH has contributed significantly to this boody of knowledge.
Published: November 2006
Journal article
Journal article
Systematic review of the qualitative literature on return to work after injury
Published: Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment and Health, August 2006
At Work article
At Work article
New centre aims to improve return-to-work outcomes
The newly-opened Centre for Research Expertise in Improving Disability Outcomes (CREIDO) will focus on the diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of chronic MSK pain and disability.
Published: April 2006