Over the coming weeks, I will chat with you regarding workers’ compensation and occupational health & safety issues. I encourage and invite you to leave comments or ask me any questions you have in this realm. I will start by providing some basic information concerning the Workers’ compensation system to set the stage.

 The Workers’ compensation system in Canada is based on five basic principles known as the “Meredith Principles”

• No-fault compensation: Workplace injuries are compensated regardless of fault. The worker and employer waive the right to sue. There is no argument over responsibility or liability for an injury. Fault becomes irrelevant, and providing compensation becomes the focus.
• Collective liability: The total cost of the compensation system is shared by all employers. All employers contribute to a common fund. Financial liability becomes their collective responsibility.
• Security of payment: A fund is established to guarantee that compensation monies will be available. Injured workers are assured of prompt compensation and future benefits.
• Exclusive jurisdiction: All compensation claims are directed solely to the compensation board. The Board is the decision-maker and final authority for all claims. Nor is the Board bound by legal precedent; it has the power and authority to judge each case on its individual merits.
• Independent board: The governing board is both autonomous and non-political. The Board is financially independent of government or any special interest group. The administration of the system is focused on the needs of its employer and labour clients, providing service with efficiency and impartiality.

Although these principles apply across Canada, each province’s workers’ compensation system is provincially regulated. It works as an insurance system. The more you use it, the more it costs. All incorporated entities operating in Newfoundland and Labrador (NL) must register with the WHSCC. Coverage is mandatory for all workers, including owners, directors, or managers. A non incorporated entity in not required to register if the only workers are the proprietor or partners. However, as soon as a worker is hired or sub-contracts work, they must register. There are some exclusion’s, so check with your individual province for further details.

The system provides insurance benefits to a worker or the worker’s dependents for injury, disability, or disease contracted by the worker arising out of and in the course of their employment. In NL, the system is funded 100% by employers. Chances are if you’re on this website, you’re an employer who’s looking for a way to lower your workers’ compensation costs.  Provincial workers’ compensation legislation varies greatly and they change frequently, so make sure to check the policies for information specific to your province. If an employee is injured on the job, they are entitled to payment of: 

• Medical bills
• Hospital bills
• Lost wages
• Rehabilitation
• Medications
• Mileage to/from medical providers (depending on location)
• Permanency, scarring, scarring or residual loss of earning capacity
• Labour Market Re-Entry

Stay tuned as I endeavour to help you weave your way through the complex mosaic of Workers’ Compensation.