Mining workers’ perceptions of the barriers to and facilitators of return to work subsequent to illness or injury

Abstract

The goal of this thesis is to identify barriers to and facilitators of a successful return to work (RTW) following an occupational or non-occupational injury or illness within the mining industry. This study used qualitative research methods to better understand the recovery and RTW process from the perspectives of mining workers. Research participants engaged in semi-structured interviews to explore mining workers’ experiences with the RTW process following an injury or illness. Data analysis was guided by interpretive description (Thorne, 2016) and the following key themes emerged: holistic pillars of well-being supporting the RTW process, holistic supports, navigating the maze, and organizational championship. In conclusion, the results of this study illustrated the importance of various supports in facilitating recovery and RTW. Supports can manifest in organizational policy, RTW navigation guidance, and stakeholder appreciation for and understanding of the mind–body connection.