10 SATURDAY, APRIL 15, 2023
A SUPPLEMENT TO THE FREE PRESS
AFTER AN INJURY: Returning to work when able, ready
by MHCA Safety Advisor Randy Olynick, saw its first class March 16, with a full turnout of 15 participants — demonstrating just how important this issue is for employers. “The course explains exactly what a disability management program is, how it applies to a company and what that company can do to alleviate some of the pressure it causes,” describes Olynick. Don Hurst, Director of WORKSAFELY® Education and Training, said they saw a need for developing appropriate return-to- work programs to better assist the industry. “We focus a lot of our attention on prevention of illnesses and injuries in the workplace, but this course acknowledges we can better manage the whole process that kicks in when an incident occurs, and, particularly, what we can do better to help that worker return to work safely and productively,” explains Hurst. As much as disability management is about managing when an employee is injured, it also is about addressing issues that lead to workers getting hurt. Return-to-work programs encourage safe work, to avoid injuries and illnesses in the first place. “Workplaces have their COR® safety program managed, but disability management and having an appropriate return-to-work program is needed to reach the next level,” Olynick states. Returning to work can look different for many individuals and can include: • Going back to full duties • Adjustments to work duties
Jessie Weir is THE MHCA WORKSAFELY® Education Programs Coordinator
T he heavy construction industry has made significant strides over the past decades in keeping workers safe, on the job site. But injuries do occur. Numerous programs are triggered when a worker is hurt, and one of them is a focus on ensuring an employee returning to work is appropriately supported. A return-to-work plan is the newest addition to the long-standing suite of safety and health programs held by companies working in heavy construction. Many companies are still developing a return-to- work plan, which could include working with WCB or MPI claims, and it can sometimes be a frustrating process. MHCA’s WORKSAFELY® now offers companies help to navigate this often difficult and lengthy process. The Disability Management Program course, developed
• Reduced work hours • Starting a new role
Return-to-work programs help workers get back to safe and suitable work, while reducing financial costs for the employer and the worker.
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