About Institute for work and health
The Institute for Work and Health (IWH) is a leading independent, not-for-profit organization that conducts and shares actionable research to promote, protect, and improve the health and safety of working people. With a focus on evidence-based solutions, IWH works closely with stakeholders across various sectors to develop practical strategies that address the complex challenges facing today's workforce.
At IWH, we believe that every worker has the right to a safe and healthy workplace. Our team of experts is dedicated to advancing knowledge in occupational health and safety through rigorous research studies that inform policy decisions at all levels of government. By collaborating with employers, unions, healthcare providers, policymakers, and other stakeholders in the field of occupational health and safety (OHS), we strive to create safer workplaces for all.
Our research covers a wide range of topics related to OHS including injury prevention, mental health in the workplace, return-to-work programs after an injury or illness, work disability prevention strategies for chronic conditions such as arthritis or diabetes. We also conduct studies on emerging issues such as artificial intelligence (AI) in the workplace or how climate change may impact workers' health.
One area where IWH has made significant contributions is in developing evidence-based guidelines for preventing work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). MSDs are one of the most common types of injuries experienced by workers worldwide. Through our research efforts over many years we have developed practical tools such as checklists or training programs which can help employers prevent these injuries from occurring.
Another area where IWH has been active is promoting mental health in the workplace. Mental illness is now recognized as one of the leading causes of disability worldwide. At IWH we have conducted extensive research into how workplaces can support employees who are experiencing mental health challenges while also promoting overall psychological well-being among all workers.
In addition to conducting original research studies ourselves at IWH we also collaborate with other organizations around Canada and internationally on joint projects. We are a member of the Partnership for Work, Health and Safety, which brings together researchers, employers, unions and other stakeholders to develop practical solutions to OHS challenges. We also work closely with the Canadian Association for Research on Work and Health (CARWH) which is a network of researchers across Canada who share an interest in OHS research.
At IWH we are committed to sharing our research findings widely so that they can be used by those who need them most. Our website provides free access to all our publications including reports, fact sheets or infographics. We also offer training programs for employers or healthcare providers on topics such as return-to-work strategies or how to prevent MSDs.
In conclusion, the Institute for Work and Health is a leading independent organization dedicated to promoting health and safety in the workplace through evidence-based research studies. With a focus on collaboration with stakeholders across various sectors we strive to create safer workplaces for all workers. Our commitment to sharing our findings widely ensures that our work has real-world impact in improving working conditions around Canada and beyond.
iwh.on.ca
