Workers Compensation Act amendments
Amendments to the Workers Compensation Act will mean that wildfire fighters, fire investigators and firefighters working for First Nations and other indigenous organizations will gain easier access to workers’ compensation and support services for cancer, heart disease and mental health disorders that can arise from work conditions. The changes recognize that these particular occupations are more likely to suffer certain physical and mental health conditions and diseases. When diagnosed with one of these conditions and applying for workers’ compensation, there will no longer be a need to prove that it is work-related. The amendments expand on last year’s changes that covered urban firefighters. will mean that wildfire fighters, fire investigators and firefighters working for First Nations and other indigenous organizations will gain easier access to workers’ compensation and support services for cancer, heart disease and mental health disorders that can arise from work conditions. The changes recognize that these particular occupations are more likely to suffer certain physical and mental health conditions and diseases. When diagnosed with one of these conditions and applying for workers’ compensation, there will no longer be a need to prove that it is work-related. The amendments expand on last year’s changes that covered urban firefighters.