Injury management programs are based on the philosophy that many injured workers can safely perform productive work during their recovery. It is also good business practice for employers. Not only does it help prevent time loss but it can save an employer money on their WorkSafeBC premiums. Having an injury management program also helps prevent long-term disability. Research confirms that people who never lose time from work have better outcomes than people who lose some time from work.
The success of an injury management program depends on actively managing incidents, maintaining open communication between all parties and providing temporary modified work duties, when necessary, to fit an injured worker’s capabilities. The injured worker should be an active participant in all steps of the program.
Following an injury, it’s not uncommon for a worker to feel embarrassed, worried, frustrated or even guilty. Like the coach of a sports team, a construction supervisor plays a major role in making that worker feel he/she is still part of the team and return to work is in their long-term best interest. The construction supervisor is also responsible for providing guidance to help get the injured party back to regular activities as soon as possible.
Having a game plan for dealing with injuries is operationally important for any company. If a process is not in place, then an employer could be left out of the loop when it comes to knowing about and assisting a worker with their injury.
Here are six helpful steps employers can follow when developing an injury management plan.
1. First response
The first response is to ensure the injured worker receives first aid as soon as possible. The first aid attendant will either assess and treat the worker at work, or assess and stabilize the worker and refer him/her to further medical aid.
2. Stay at work or return to work plan
If the injured worker is able to stay at work and return to regular duties, monitor the worker during the shift. If a worker needs to leave work, give him/her a return to work package. This may include a letter to the worker, a letter to a physician and a physician’s stay at work and/or return to work planning form.
3. Determine temporary limitations
A physician’s report may outline temporary limitations. However, it’s still important to ask the worker which tasks or job duties he/she can do. An employer can also call the WorkSafeBC construction nurse line, which provides guidelines for typical limitations.
4. Establish a modified work agreement
An employer should make a written offer to the worker using a modified work offer form. Collaborate with the injured worker to create a modified work agreement that is mutually beneficial.
5. Monitor the progress
Communication is key between an injured worker and their supervisor, and should be consistent and regular throughout their recovery. Regular face-to-face contact with an injured worker can eliminate misunderstandings or confusion.
6. Documentation
Throughout all of the steps, it is important to document communication between all parties, using the modified work agreement as a guide. This communication must be maintained as a confidential file.
Michael McKenna is executive director of the B.C. Construction Safety Alliance (BCCSA), a not-for-profit safety association funded by the construction industry. The BCCSA provides a free hands-on guide for construction supervisors that walks through a collaborative team approach to injury management.
