Employer attitudes, training, and return-to-work outcomes: a pilot study

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Workplace Safety

Background:

• Employer attitudes and practices significantly influence return-to-work and rehabilitation for injured workers.
• Prior research highlights the independent impact of employer responses on disability outcomes.
• Work-related musculoskeletal discomfort requires effective employer engagement for optimal recovery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and pilot a training program for supervisors to enhance their response to employees reporting work-related injuries.
• To investigate the impact of supervisor training on employer attitudes and practices affecting injured worker rehabilitation.
• To assess changes in supervisor behavior and employee perceptions following the intervention.

Main Methods:

• A pilot training program was delivered to 108 supervisors across seven companies.
• A survey was administered to employees before and after the intervention to assess supervisor responses.
• Data collected included injury details, supervisor actions, and employee impressions of interactions.

Main Results:

• Significant decreases were observed in supervisors blaming employees, not taking conditions seriously, and discouraging claims.
• Positive trends emerged in improved confidentiality, access to medical care, and workplace accommodations.
• Anecdotal evidence suggested a decrease in work-related lost time, though not formally verified.

Conclusions:

• Employer education, particularly for front-line supervisors, can improve disability management and accommodations.
• Targeted training can positively influence employer practices, aiding injured worker rehabilitation.
• Rehabilitation professionals can leverage employer training to enhance return-to-work processes.