WCB of Nova Scotia reminds employers about summer risks while highlighting progress in injury rates
More Nova Scotians are returning to work after injury, according to new data released by the Workers’ Compensation Board (WCB) of Nova Scotia. As the province enters the summer season, the WCB is reporting progress in both injury rates and the speed at which workers are returning to their jobs.
The WCB states that the injury rate as of the end of June has dropped to 1.31 time-loss injuries per 100 covered workers, down from 1.38 at the end of 2024. The organization attributes this improvement to collaborative efforts between employers, health care providers, and the WCB itself.
By the end of June, workplace injuries resulted in approximately 246 days of work missed for every 100 workers covered by the WCB, which represents about two-thirds of Nova Scotia’s workforce. This figure is an improvement from the nearly 270 days lost per 100 covered workers at the end of last year.
“Three quarters of Nova Scotians hurt on the job are returning to work within 90 days,” the WCB reported, noting that this means more people are available to contribute to the province’s economy.
The summer months, which often bring an increase in seasonal work, present both opportunities and challenges. The WCB highlights that employers can use this period to assign safe, transitional duties to injured workers, helping them stay connected to their workplaces during recovery. “By thinking creatively, employers can assign safe transitional duties – like helping newer workers or managing inventory – to help Nova Scotians injured on the job stay connected to the workplace during recovery,” the release states.
Godfrey Jerry, chief operating officer of WCB Nova Scotia, commented: “We’re challenging the outdated mindset – this summer and every day – that Nova Scotians are better off recovering at home. We’re encouraging, and seeing, more workplaces embrace what we know to be true – Nova Scotians feel better and do better when they’re connected to work.”
The WCB also cautions that summer brings new risks, particularly for new and younger workers who may be less likely to speak up about unsafe conditions. “As Nova Scotia’s workforce grows during the summer months, it often includes new workers, and younger workers, who may be less likely to speak up if they see something unsafe,” said Tracey Newman, Vice President of Prevention and Employer Engagement.
The WCB is reminding employers to prioritize safety and support workers if injuries occur. Recommended summer safety measures include regular hydration, wearing light clothing, taking breaks in shaded areas, recognizing signs of heat-related illness, and looking out for coworkers who may be unwell.
The WCB reminds employers a combination of prevention and early return-to-work strategies can help protect workers across the province during the busy summer season.
