On September 20, 2024, Nova Scotia’s Stronger Workplaces for Nova Scotia Act, which amended the Workers’ Compensation Act, the Occupational Health and Safety Act, and the Labour Standards Code, received Royal Assent. Portions of the Stronger Workplaces for Nova Scotia Act are already in effect. This article will review the changes coming into effect in July and September 2025.

Quick Hits

• The Stronger Workplaces for Nova Scotia Act amends the Workers’ Compensation Act to include Section 89A, which outlines the duties of employers and employees regarding the early and safe return to work of injured workers. This change will come into effect on July 15, 2025.
• Starting September 1, 2025, the act will also amend the Occupational Health and Safety Act to include psychological health and safety in the definition of “health and safety” and require employers to establish policies to prevent workplace harassment.
• Employers may want to review and update their current policies on harassment, occupational health and safety, and safe return to work to comply with the new regulations and address the Nova Scotian government’s focus on preventing workplace harassment and psychological harm.

Changes Coming in July 2025

The Stronger Workplaces for Nova Scotia Act amends the Workers’ Compensation Act by adding Section 89A and changing Subsection 89(3), which provides the definitions for “alternative employment” and “suitable work,” to apply to Section 89A as well. These changes come into...

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