Support Injured Workers, Including Those Affected by Work-Related Mental Stress

Completed

Way Forward Commitment:

Our government is committed to maintaining a sustainable workplace injury system for both workers and employers. To that end, we are implementing a new five-year injury prevention plan, Advancing a Strong Safety Culture in Newfoundland and Labrador, and we have increased the income replacement rate for injured workers from 80 to 85 per cent. Our government worked collaboratively with WorkplaceNL to modernize policies for mental stress coverage recognizing that workplace-based mental stress may be caused by exposure to multiple traumatic events that are an inherent part of certain occupations, such as when first responders witness fatalities. Workers diagnosed with a specific mental stress issue will now be assessed to determine if they qualify for benefits under the workers’ compensation system. Our government also approved legislative changes to recognize that firefighters would be covered if exposed to cancer-causing agents. Now, firefighters have access to presumptive cancer coverage.

In 2018-19, WorkplaceNL will continue its review of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) coverage with a view to providing options regarding our workplace injury system and supports for those affected by work-related mental stress.

What We’ve Accomplished:

  • On February 20, 2018, the Injury Prevention Strategy was released and is being implemented by WorkplaceNL and Service NL.
  • WorkplaceNL reviewed PTSD coverage in other jurisdictions and accepted submissions from interested parties to inform the research.
  • On March 15, 2018, WorkplaceNL announced it has modernized its mental stress policy to recognize that work-related mental health issues may be caused by exposure to multiple traumatic events. The policy also now includes events that are an inherent part of an occupation, such as first responders witnessing fatalities.
  • On December 5, 2018 an amendment to the Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Act received Royal Assent. The Amendment provides presumptive coverage for work-related PTSD for all workers covered under the Act. This amendment is effective July 1, 2019.

News Releases:

Amendments Will Increase Income Replacement Rate for Injured Workers in Province

Presumptive Coverage for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder for All Workers Covered by the Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Act

Presumptive Coverage for PTSD Available July 1