Workshops

Return-to-work planning can become complicated when medical restrictions, job demands, workplace expectations, and accommodation options do not line up clearly.

The OT Work Strategies Workshop is an interactive, on-site workshop designed for HR, Disability Management, Health & Safety, and Return-to-Work professionals who want a practical occupational therapy perspective on supporting employees at work.

Rather than focusing only on policy or theory, through case studies and practicce exercises the workshop looks at how functional abilities, job demands, workplace barriers, and potential accommodations come together in real-world return-to-work situations.

Participants learn how to:

• Understand the role of OT in the Occupational Health context
• Interpret functional abilities and restrictions in a workplace context
• Identify the information needed to make informed return-to-work decisions
• Understand the role of Job Demands Analyses (JDA/PDA), Job Match Assessments (JMA), and when to use OT Functional Workplace Assessments, and Job Coaching
• Recognize potential mismatches between worker abilities and job demands
• Explore practical accommodation and work-strategy options
• Consider physical, cognitive, sensory, and psychosocial job demands
• Improve communication between the worker, employer, and healthcare provider
• Recognize when further workplace assessment may be appropriate

Occupational therapists look at the interaction between the person, the job, and the work environment.

During the workshop, participants are encouraged to move beyond broad statements such as “light duties” or “avoid heavy lifting” and consider the actual demands of the work.

How often is the task performed?
How much force is required?
What postures are involved?
Can the task be modified?
Does the worker's documented functional ability actually match the job?

Good judgment requires solid information.

The workshop helps teams understand what information matters and how it can be used to support practical workplace decisions.

The OT Work Strategies Workshop is suitable for:

• Human Resources professionals
• Disability Management professionals
• Health & Safety teams
• Return-to-Work Coordinators
• Claims and Case Management professionals
• Supervisors and managers involved in accommodation planning

The workshop is delivered on site at your workplace and can be tailored to the needs of your organization.

Typical format:

3–4 hours
Approximately 10–30 participants
Interactive discussion, practical examples, and workplace scenarios

Content can be adapted to reflect your organization, workforce, and return-to-work challenges.

A successful return to work is not simply about identifying what a worker cannot do. It is about understanding what they can do, what the job actually requires, and where practical changes may create a workable match.

The OT Work Strategies Workshop gives workplace teams a clearer framework for asking the right questions, identifying gaps in information, understanding what OT services can support RTW programs, and making more informed accommodation and return-to-work decisions.

Interested in bringing the OT Work Strategies Workshop to your organization?

Contact Workplace Safety & Wellness Solutions to discuss your team, workplace needs, and workshop options.