WORKERS’ COMPENSATION
Accidents happen, but many can be prevented. Employers, supervisors, workers, unions, and the WSIB all have a vital role to play in workplace injury prevention. Under the Workplace Safety and Insurance Act (WSIA), an employer is obligated to provide a safe work environment free from physical injuries and harassment. But, workers who do the jobs every day might come up with safety solutions that the employers don’t see. A Joint Health and Safety Committee (JHSC) allows employer and worker representatives to work together to develop policies and procedures to improve work health and safety outcomes. If you’re a worker with an idea about how to improve workplace safety, take the idea to your JHSC. Prevention is key and prevention is everyone’s responsibility. Reporting Injuries and Illnesses When you are injured – whether at work or not – make sure you report it as soon as possible to your employer. •
Seek medical attention.
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Complete a Form 6 for any work-related injuries and send that Form to the WSIB.
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Inform your Union Steward and/or Union Rep.
Reporting injuries (or the onset of pain or illness) as soon as possible can help you meet WSIB time limits and avoid unnecessary delays in maintaining income through your treatment and recovery, and/or return to work. Your Union can also assist with appeals for denied injury claims, help guide you through the return-to-work and accommodation processes, and help you understand the income protection options available to you: •
Employment Insurance (EI);
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Short or Long-Term Disability (STD/LTD);
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The Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP);
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Canada Pension Plan Disability (CPPD), and;
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WSIB benefits.
ufcw175.com/workerscompensation workerscomp@ufcw175.com 1-800-565-8329
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