WSIB Training and Return-to-Work Support

Table of Contents

Overview

The Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) provides support to individuals who have experienced a workplace injury or illness and need assistance returning to work.

In some cases, WSIB may support education or vocational training as part of a return-to-work plan, helping individuals develop new skills or transition into suitable employment.

ETC Education & Training Consulting brings over 25 years of experience in the career education sector and supports prospective trainees across Ontario.

We help individuals explore training options that may align with return-to-work goals and program requirements.

What is WSIB Training Support?

WSIB’s primary goal is to help injured or ill individuals return to safe and suitable employment.

When returning to a previous job is not possible, WSIB may support retraining or education as part of a return-to-work strategy.

Training support is typically considered when:

  • a worker cannot return to their previous job
  • new skills are required for suitable employment
  • training improves the likelihood of returning to work

WSIB focuses on achieving practical employment outcomes through retraining investments.

Who May Be Eligible

Eligibility for WSIB-supported training is determined on a case-by-case basis.

Individuals who may be considered include:

  • workers who have experienced a workplace injury or illness
  • workers who are receiving WSIB benefit
  • individuals unable to return to their previous job
  • workers requiring new skills to re-enter the workforce

WSIB evaluates whether training will improve the likelihood of successful return to work before approving support.

Return-to-Work (RTW) Plans and Training

WSIB uses a structured Return-to-Work (RTW) process to support recovery and employment.

Key Elements of RTW Plans:

  • assessment of the worker’s abilities and limitations
  • identification of suitable job options
  • development of a customized return-to-work plan
  • inclusion of training if required

RTW plans are developed collaboratively with:

  • the worker
  • the employer
  • healthcare professionals
  • WSIB specialists

If needed, training may be included to help the worker:

  • gain new skills
  • transition to a different role
  • re-enter the labour market

Types of Training That May Be Supported

WSIB may support education or vocational training that aligns with return-to-work goals.

Examples include:

Business and Administration

  • accounting and payroll
  • office administration
  • ERP systems

Information Technology

  • IT support
  • data analytics
  • technical skills training

Engineering and Technical Training

  • CAD drafting
  • Electrical
  • Mechanical training
  • Civil engineering
  • Structural engineering

Healthcare Training

  • administrative healthcare roles
  • support positions

Skilled Trades

  • electrical
  • HVAC
  • welding
  • CNC programming
  • industrial mechanic (millwright)

Training must be aligned with a suitable occupation and labour market opportunities.

How the Process Works

The WSIB training and return-to-work process generally involves several steps:

Step 1

Assessment of the worker’s condition and ability to return to work.

Step 2

Evaluation of whether the worker can return to their previous job or requires alternative work.

Step 3

Development of a Return-to-Work (RTW) plan.

Step 4

If required, training is included as part of the plan.

Step 5

Worker participates in training and return-to-work activities.

WSIB may continue to provide loss-of-earnings benefits during the training process, as long as the individual participates in the plan.

How ETC Can Help

How ETC Education & Training Consulting Can Help

Understanding training options within the WSIB return-to-work process can be complex.

With over 25 years of experience in career education, ETC Education & Training Consulting supports individuals across Ontario by:

  • identifying training programs aligned with return-to-work goals
  • comparing training providers and program options
  • helping evaluate suitable career pathways
  • providing guidance on training selection
  • supporting preparation for training discussions with WSIB

Our experience allows us to provide practical guidance across multiple industries and training sectors.

Our consultation service is free and without obligation.

Important Information

ETC Education & Training Consulting is not affiliated with WSIB and does not administer WSIB programs.

Training approval is determined by WSIB based on:

  • individual circumstances
  • return-to-work assessments
  • program suitability

Participation in return-to-work plans requires cooperation from both the worker and employer, and failure to participate may affect benefits.

Applicants should refer to official WSIB resources for the most up-to-date information.

Request Consultation

If you are currently working with WSIB or exploring training options to support your return to work, our advisors can help you review suitable programs and next steps.