For workers

We are here to help you not only return to work but return to the things you love.

Your adjudicator or case manager will work with you, your employer and health care provider to help you along the way. If you have questions at any time, please call us. We are here to help.

This page provides more information on options for planning your return to work.

Your care and return-to-work plan

Once your claim is approved, we develop a return-to-work plan with you and your employer. A return-to-work plan defines clear return-to-work goals and determine how we will achieve those goals.

You play an important role in your recovery and return to work. Keeping your adjudicator or case manager updated on your progress helps ensure you receive the right benefits and services at the right time.

Your case manager will review progress reports from your doctor and other health care providers to determine when you are able to return to work. They will contact you to discuss return-to-work options and will check with your employer to determine if there is modified or alternate work you can do while you continue to recover. Although your injury may not be fully healed, the right work activity can help you achieve the best recovery results.

Return-to-work planning meeting (RTWPM)

A return-to-work planning meeting will help identify suitable work options to help you get back to work while recovering. This meeting is an opportunity for you to share your thoughts, ideas and concerns about your return to work. Your employer and return-to-work service provider will join you at this meeting. Your authorized union rep can also attend if you want.

The RTWPM can be a key step in setting the direction for your return to work.

Recover while you work: try modified work

Your participation is key to your recovery—you understand your job and your injury. You may also have ideas on how we can change your job so you can return while recovering—this is called modified work.



Modified work can be:

  • Changes in your job tasks or functions (e.g., less lifting, or bending).
  • Changes in your workload (e.g., hours worked per day or your work schedule).
  • Alterations to your work area and environment (e.g., work in the office, shop or front counter) or the equipment you use to do your job.
  • Work that is normally performed by others.

When considering a task as a modified work option, it is important you make sure the modified task is:

  • Achievable – given your injury, are you able to physically do it.
  • Safe – modified work should not endanger your recovery and safety or the safety of others.
  • Constructive – modified work should contribute to your skill development and your return to full duties.
  • Productive – your duties should be meaningful to the organization.

How you benefit from modified work

Modified work helps you return to work while recovering and provides the opportunity to continue contributing to your workplace. In 2014, modified work helped more than 45,000 workers succeed at work following a workplace injury. Through modified work, you gain:

  • Independence and remain self-sufficient.
  • Income and job security. (You know you have a job to return to and do not have to look for another job.)
  • A sense of belonging (to your company and co-workers).
  • A better recovery.

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