What small businesses need to know about prevention, recovery, and support from WCB Nova Scotia
Small Business Week is a time to celebrate the entrepreneurs, innovators, and hard-working teams that keep our province moving forward. An important part of that success is keeping employees safe and knowing what to do when workplace injuries occur.
WCB Nova Scotia works with small business owners every day to make prevention and return-to-work easier to understand, simple to navigate, and more effective for everyone.
And the results speak for themselves: with workplace injuries at an all-time low and more than 75% of injured workers returning to work within 90 days, we’re seeing the best outcome in years thanks to the collective accountability of WCB alongside Nova Scotia’s employers, workers, and system partners.
“Small businesses may not have dedicated safety staff or large budgets for training,” says Tracey Newman, Vice President, Prevention and Employer Engagement, Business Excellence. “But prevention is often about small, consistent actions—regular safety talks, a culture where employees feel comfortable reporting hazards, and simple, clear processes. These are achievable in every workplace, no matter the size.”
Still, myths about workplace injury, insurance, and return-to-work can make the process seem more daunting than it really is. Let’s set the record straight.
Myth: “Injured workers need to be fully healed before they come back.”
Fact: Most people recover faster when they stay connected to work – even with modified duties or reduced hours. “That connection to the team, the routine, and the sense of purpose plays a huge role in speeding recovery,” says Matt Ross, Director, Employer Performance.
Myth: “Small businesses can’t offer modified duties.”
Fact: Modified duties can be as simple as lighter tasks, shorter shifts, or work-from-home options. It’s about finding what’s safe and possible—not perfect.
Myth: “If someone gets hurt, there’s nothing we can do until they return.” Fact: Staying in touch, checking in, and involving the worker in the return-to-work plan can make the process smoother and help prevent long-term absence.
Myth: “Injury prevention is too expensive for small businesses.”
Fact: Many prevention measures are low-cost, like clear walkways, proper training, and good communication, and often save money by avoiding costly claims.
Myth: “Return-to-work programs are complicated and for big companies only.” Fact: Even small businesses can have a simple plan outlining who to call, how to modify work, and how to communicate.
Myth: “Having people off work always costs you money.”
Fact: The real costs often come from employees being away for extended periods. Helping them return safely—even in a modified role—keeps productivity up, reduces hiring and training expenses, and can help keep insurance premiums stable.
Myth: “Workplace injury coverage is for big businesses, not a small shop like mine.”
Fact: In Nova Scotia, many small businesses are required to have workplace injury coverage—and for good reason. It protects both workers and employers, providing wage replacement, medical support, and guidance on return-to-work. It’s a safety net that helps businesses stay on track after an incident.
Partnering with small businesses for success
WCB Nova Scotia’s digital-first approach makes it even easier for small businesses to access help—from registering a claim to downloading a prevention checklist or return-to-work toolkit. Their redesigned website offers quick videos, webinars, and industry-specific resources, all designed for busy workplaces.
“We want to make it as easy as possible for small businesses to integrate safety and return-to-work into their day-to-day,” says Newman. “That means offering resources in formats that work for busy people—quick, clear, and available when you need them.”
While WCB has prioritized making online information and resources accessible, they also have dedicated teams providing personalized support for both workers and employers. Combined, this approach allows WCB to serve as a true partner, ensuring that employers aren’t alone when it comes to managing workplace safety and recovery.
“Our goal is to make prevention and return-to-work part of everyday business operations in a way that feels natural, rather than an added burden,” says Ross. “When we do that, we keep more Nova Scotians working, reduce costs for employers, and strengthen our communities.”
Connect with members of the WCB Prevention and Employer Engagement team anytime by emailing
employer.engagement@wcb.ns.ca
For prevention tips, return-to-work resources, and more, visit wcb.ns.ca
