New Return to Work and Re-employment Regulation for Construction Sector Q&A Q 1. What is this new regulation? A. This regulation is for construction industry employers and workers regarding their return to work and re-employment obligations pursuant to sections 40 and 41 of the Workplace Safety and Insurance Act. Q 2. Why is this regulation welcome news? A. After years of operating under the old Workers' Compensation Act Regulation, which had no return to work obligations and less clearly articulated re-employment obligations, the WSIB believes this regulation provides fairness for both construction employers and injured workers. It will help to improve return to work outcomes in the construction industry. Q 3. When does the regulation come into effect? A. The regulation becomes effective on September 1, 2008. Q 4. Once it is effective (September 1), how will it work until the policies are in place? A. The WSIB is currently developing policies relating to this regulation. Although the regulation becomes effective on September 1, 2008, we know there will be areas (such as the penalty provisions) that will need to be managed. The timing and implementation of the policies will need to be coordinated with: the roll-out of the new service delivery model the training needs of the construction sector staff, and the timing of the release of the rest of the Early and Safe Return to Work policies to all other Ontario workplaces. Q 5. What is the role of the construction industry stakeholder? A. Construction industry stakeholders will be requested to provide feedback on draft policies and contribute to the development of an external education and implementation plan.