At a time when many able-bodied workers are having trouble finding or keeping a steady job, I imagine it’s even harder for injured, ill or disabled workers.

A new research center in Ontario aims to better understand this population and develop policy solutions to improve Canada’s disability system.

Launched at McMaster University on Feb. 4, the Centre for Research on Work Disability Policy will be led by Drs. Emile Tompa and Ellen MacEachen of the Institute for Work & Health in Toronto.

In a press release, MacEachen explained why the initiative was necessary. “More and more people with health conditions or impairments are falling into the grey zone of unemployment,” she stated. “They can and want to work, and need help to get there, yet may not qualify for work integration support from any one program. With our partners, we will do research to help us understand how this is happening and how our system might be improved to address it.”

I often write about Institute for Work & Health reports and interview affiliated experts, so I can’t wait to see what kind of research comes out of this endeavor.

The opinions expressed in "On Research" do not necessarily reflect those of the National Safety Council or affiliated local Chapters.