New WorkCover WA guide to aid in return to work

WorkCover WA have recently released a new guide specifically designed to educate employers about what they can do to assist injured workers get back into their jobs as quickly as possible.

The new guide, titled Injury Management: a Guide for Employers was developed to replace the existing Injury Management Code of Practice Guidance Notes.

“The Guide has been designed to assist employers to comply with their obligations under the law and implement effective injury management systems”, says Tim Roach, General Manager Regulatory Services

“Insurers, medical practitioners and workplace rehabilitation providers will also find the publication useful to assist them and their clients to understand the legal requirements.”

WorkCover WA involved industry stakeholders, including GIO, in the development of the guide. Chris McHugh, EGM Statutory Portfolio & Underwriting Management, responded on GIO’s behalf.

“The new Guide is an easy reference tool for employers” says Mr McHugh. “It is user-friendly, practical, written in plain English with a structure that is easy to follow. We see significant benefits for small to medium sized employers as they often don’t have many claims and are therefore not necessarily aware of their obligations.

GIO applauds the efforts of WorkCover WA in clarifying employer’s obligations to injury management in the development of this guide. We believe that it will prove to be very useful tools in assisting employers drive improved return to work rates, which in turn will improve workplace productivity.

GIO remains committed to working collaboratively with WorkCover WA to drive workplace safety and improved return to work rates”.

The new Guide can be downloaded from the Returning to Work section of the WorkCover WA website.

If you have any queries, or wish to obtain a hardcopy of the new Guide please phone WorkCover WA's Advisory Services on 1300 794 744 or email corporatecommunications@workcover.wa.gov.au.