The Clock is Ticking on Duty to Cooperate

On July 15, 2025, Nova Scotia’s Duty to Cooperate legislation will come into effect, requiring both employers and injured workers to actively engage in the return-to-work process.

The legislation represents a major shift in how workplace injuries will be managed, and how accountability will be enforced.

What is Duty to Cooperate?
For employers, Duty to Cooperate is a legal obligation to maintain contact with injured workers, to provide suitable work when possible, and to communicate with the Workers’ Compensation Board of Nova Scotia (WCBNS) when requested.

For workers, this legislation is a legal obligation to stay in contact with their employer, assist in identifying suitable duties, and participate actively in their own recovery.

The consequences for failing to comply?
For employers, consequences can include penalties up to the full cost of compensation and related expenses.

For workers, potential suspension or loss of benefits may be possible.

Why is this happening?
Return-to-work is currently one of WCBNS’ biggest challenges, with too many workers off work for too long, and too many claims becoming long-term.

The new legislation, already in place in other provinces for many years, is intended to improve outcomes, lower claim duration and costs, and get more Nova Scotians back to work as quickly and safely as possible.

How can DMC help?
Since 2002, DMC has been focused on return-to-work processes and disability claims in provinces where this type of legislation is well-established.

Our clients in Nova Scotia already benefit from DMC’s structured, collaborative approach, built around the very principles now being legislated. They are well-positioned and prepared for what’s coming.

Regardless of location, our approach ensures we always:

  • Maintain communication with all workplace stakeholders

  • Seek out, review and interpret functional information

  • Identify and coordinate suitable return-to-work opportunities

  • Develop and implement Early and Safe Return-to-Work (ESRTW) plans

  • Support compliance with WCB requirements

  • Protect you from unnecessary costs and penalties

We know how this legislation works.
If you have questions or concerns, please feel free to get in touch.

If you don’t have a return-to-work process in place, give us a call.

If you are unsure if your company’s approach aligns with the new legislation, we can help.

Toll-free: 1-877-709-3359 / Solutions@DMConsulting.ca