The return-to-office (RTO) transition is a significant adjustment, especially after an extended period of remote work. Many of our members have only recently begun to return to the office three days per week, while some members will begin working three days per week in office soon.

The Canada Employment and Immigration Union continues to call for remote work as a progressive vision for the future of work.

Amidst this advocacy and bargaining work, we also want to ensure that members are taking care of your mental and physical health. By being proactive and leveraging available resources, you can navigate this transition with greater ease and confidence.

Here are 11 health and safety tips amidst the return to office.

1. Communicate with your employer

Start by communicating openly with your employer. Sharing your concerns, challenges, and preferences with your manager is essential.

Whether you’re struggling with the commute, balancing caregiving responsibilities, or feeling anxious with this change, having an honest conversation can help you access the support and accommodations you need.

2. Setting boundaries between work and personal life

As you return to the office, it’s important to set clear boundaries between work and personal life.

The flexibility of remote work may have allowed you to integrate your professional and personal responsibilities more seamlessly. Establish a routine that includes defined start and end times for your workday and resist the urge to check emails or take work calls outside those hours.

3. Wellbeing self-assessment

Being in tune with yourself—your physical and mental health—is crucial during this transition.

Pay attention to how your body and mind are responding to the changes. Are you feeling fatigued, stressed, or overwhelmed? These are signs that you may need to slow down or seek support.

If you find yourself unable to meet workload requirements, it’s important to inform your employer as soon as possible. Open communication about your capacity can help prevent burnout and ensure that your workload is adjusted to a manageable level. For example, if you’re struggling to keep up with deadlines, let your manager know and work together to reprioritize tasks or extend timelines.

4. Seek support

Your mental wellbeing is just as important as your physical well-being during this transition. It’s understandable to feel anxious, stressed, or overwhelmed.

Connecting with a colleague, friend or group who understand what you’re going through can make a big difference. Talking it out, sharing experiences, and learning from each other can help you feel more grounded.

You can also explore support options through your employer, like the Employee Assistance Program (EAP), or using your health care coverage to talk to a mental health professional.

Whether you’re feeling uneasy about returning to the office or just need someone to talk to, having supportive spaces – professional or peer-based – can help you navigate this transition with care and confidence.

5. Make use of benefits

Another valuable resources available to you is your employer’s insurance for mental health follow-ups. Regular check-ins with a licensed therapist can help you manage stress, anxiety, or other mental health challenges during this transition.

Review your insurance policy to understand the mental health benefits available, and schedule regular appointments to monitor and address your needs. If you’re struggling with the adjustment, a therapist can help you develop strategies to cope and thrive in the new work environment.

6. Discuss alternatives with employer

Advocating for flexibility is another way to make the transition smoother. Not all employees have the same needs, and proposing alternative solutions can help create a more inclusive workplace.

If the RTO mandate is causing significant challenges for you, discuss options like a hybrid work model, adjusted hours, or remote workdays with your employer. For instance, if you have caregiving responsibilities, you might suggest a schedule that allows you to work from home on certain days or start earlier to accommodate your needs.

Feeling physically safe in the workplace is also crucial for your well-being. Take the time to familiarize yourself with your employer’s health and safety protocols, such as cleaning schedules and ergonomic workstation setups.

If you have concerns about exposure to illness or inadequate accommodations, raise them with your manager or HR team. For example, if you’re worried about ventilation or mask policies, ask about additional safety measures or remote work options.

7. Share your perspective through employer channels

Your voice matters in shaping RTO policies, so engage in decision-making and provide feedback whenever possible. Participate in surveys, focus groups, or town halls to share your experiences and suggestions. Your input can help create a more supportive and inclusive workplace for everyone.

8. Build a support network

Building a support network can also make a big difference. Connecting with colleagues who are experiencing similar challenges can provide emotional support and practical advice.

Consider forming or joining a peer support group within your organization where employees can share their experiences, challenges, and coping strategies. Even informal coffee chats or lunch meetings can help you feel less isolated and more connected.

9. Practice self-care

Don’t forget to practice self-care and stress management. Taking short breaks throughout the day to practice deep breathing or go for a walk can help you recharge and maintain focus.

10. Request training

Another important step in navigating the return-to-office transition is to request Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) training from your employer.

OHS training equips you with the knowledge and skills to identify potential hazards, understand safety protocols, and advocate for a safer work environment. This is especially relevant as workplaces adapt to new health and safety standards post-pandemic.

By participating in OHS training, you can feel more confident in addressing concerns about physical safety, such as ergonomic setups, ventilation, or emergency procedures.

11. Get involved in committees

Additionally, consider getting involved with your workplace OHS committee or volunteering as an OHS representative.

This role allows you to actively contribute to creating a safer and healthier workplace for yourself and your colleagues. It also provides a platform to voice concerns, suggest improvements, and stay informed about the latest safety policies and practices.

Taking an active role in OHS not only enhances your own well-being but also fosters a culture of safety and accountability within your organization.

Looking forward

The return-to-office transition is a significant change, but by taking proactive steps and leveraging available resources, you can navigate it successfully.

Communicate openly, set boundaries, seek support, and advocate for flexibility to ensure your well-being remains a priority.

CEIU is ready to provide representation and support. Whether you need assistance addressing workplace concerns, navigating policy changes, or accessing resources, CEIU is here to advocate for your rights and well-being.