Tomorrow (July 15, 2025): Nova Scotia’s duty to cooperate accountability starts

Tomorrow (July 15): Nova Scotia’s duty to cooperate accountability starts.

A reminder to Nova Scotia employers that WCB’s new enforcement powers for return-to-work obligations begin July 15th.

You’re likely already doing most of what’s required. This legislation doesn’t create new responsibilities. It just makes them legally enforceable with real penalties.

Follow WCB’s “G.U.I.D.E.” framework starting tomorrow:

G - Get involved early (contact the worker immediately, don’t wait for WCB)
U - Understand communication needs (agree on how/when you’ll stay in touch)
I - Identify accommodation needs (know their abilities and restrictions)
D - Determine suitable work (be creative and offer tasks matching current abilities)
E - Engage throughout (cooperate with your WCB Case Manager on the plan)

Key point from WCB: Many workers can continue working after a workplace injury. But when they can’t, the goal is keeping them connected to the workplace during recovery.

Non-compliance can result in penalties including the full cost of compensation.

• Dan Wilband, July 14, 2025