The underlying principle of any Return to Work program is that the workplace is the best place to rehabilitate injured workers.  Employers have an obligation to prevent workplace disease and injuries and to ensure there are procedures in place for accident investigation and injury/illness reporting.  Employers, workers and their union, or employee representative, have a social and economic interest in ensuring that workers make a safe, and sustainable return to work as soon as possible following a work-related injury or illness.

1. to ensure the workplace parties have an understanding of all legislation and policy;
2. to get buy-in from all stakeholders in a meaningful and productive way;
3. to promote an understanding of Return to Work principles and how it fits in with other workplace programs;
4. to motivate employers to assess gaps in current practices; and
5. to identify and develop best practices for return to work.