Many employers believe the myth that accommodation of individuals with disabilities costs too much.  A recent study in the US has shown that this is not the case.  Although this research is from the US, we can apply this information to Canada as well.  This webtip will provide talking points for marketing accommodation in the workplace to various stakeholders.

Have you noticed that some people seem to be in your office again and again? Just when you thought that they were successfully back to work the absences start... maybe arriving late and leaving early. Maybe it's the call of the supervisor to say that the employee is not performing. Maybe it's the employee calling to say they just can't continue... This webtip will provide strategies to ensure that complex return to work issues are addressed to allow for sustainable accommodation.

This webtip overviews some evidence and case studies that examine the role of occupational therapy in the workplace.

In the decision that was covered last month, the employer (Lakes District Management, "had a duty to inform itself about the nature of the employee's medical condition and its obligation to accommodate him". (F. v Lakes District Management, December 2005). This webtip will examine accommodation offers and the employer's duty to accommodate.

Many recent cases presented to the Human Rights Tribunals focus on whether an employer has breached provisions identifying that "A person must not.....discriminate against a person regarding employment or any term or condition of employment...because of...physical or mental disability" (Ontario Human Rights Code). One case itemizes the importance of making a genuine offer of accommodation that, as an employer, all options of accommodation have been explored in a proactive manner.

How do the two fit together? This is a struggle many employers are faced with. Managing your disability/accommodation program aggressively, can result in increased usage of sick time. Ideally employers develop their attendance and disability management program to fit together well, with key components of each program supporting the overall goal of optimizing your employee's performance. Some key components to developing a well balanced, proactive approach to attendance and disability management will be provided in this webtip.

This webtip provides evidence based research on the health effects of chocolate.

With the changes in the Human Rights Process many employers are feeling the pressure surrounding their responsibility in the duty to accommodate.... BUT what is the employee's duty? This webtip will examine the employee's responsibilities with respect to return to work.

May 29, 2007 - Increased intensity of care by a general practitioner or chiropractor is associated with slower recovery for patients with soft tissue injuries such as whiplash, according to the results of a study published in the May 25 Early View issue and June print issue of Arthritis & Rheumatism.