The WORKAbility Management Program is an exciting new approach to managing those work-related injuries that lead to
costly disability. Many industries have incorporated educational
programs in an attempt to reduce the impact of musculoskeletal
injuries on their workers and their productivity. For the most part,
these programs have attempted to educate workers in methods
of safety such as safe lifting techniques (see Graduate School
4 Backs). 

The WORKAbility Management Program is not directed
at workers. It is designed for supervisors and managers.  The
emphasis of The WORKAbility Management Program is
on the role of the supervisor in facilitating an effective and timely
return to work.

Some of the obstacles preventing injured workers from returning
to work following an occupational injury and/or illness include a
lack of understanding of the factors leading to disability, poor
communication skills, and lack of support provided by supervisory personnel.

The WORKAbility Management Program has been developed
to address these concerns and to provide supervisors with the skills necessary to facilitate an early, effective, and safe return-to-work.

Studies have shown that the support of supervisors
and co-workers is an important factor in returning
injured workers to the job.