Research Plus

Age and experience predict delayed RTW

While younger and inexperienced workers are at greater risk of a lost-time back injury, their older (over 45 years) and more experienced colleagues (working at least four years) are more likely to have a delayed return to work, according to a 15-year nested case-control study of work-related back claims made by US carpenters. Those injured in acute events (eg falls, being struck, vehicle crashes) are also more likely to have a delayed return.

American Journal of Industrial Medicine 2009; 52: 821–830.  http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ajim.20747/abstract

Tags evidence based practice injuries at work Return to work

Occupational Health at Work December/January 2009/2010 (vol. 06/4) pp40