COVID-19 Information on Workers Compensation Board

Dear Member,

As we enter the fourth week of COVID-19 exposure in Nova Scotia there have been questions about how Workers Compensation will work for individuals who become exposed in their workplace and test positive for COVID-19.

The Workers Compensation Board has transitioned to work remotely so all in-person services are postponed. All services will be delivered remotely and payments will continue uninterrupted.

The Workers Compensation Board will continue to process claims and each claim will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. As set out in the Workers’ Compensation Act, benefits or services are available for work-related injury or illness, including a worker who contracted an infectious disease (such as COVID-19) during the course of their employment. The Act does not provide coverage for workers who cannot work due to quarantine or self-isolation, or workers who were sent home on a precautionary basis.

To determine if a claim for COVID-19 is compensable, WCB follows a thorough process of gathering, analyzing, and weighing evidence on which to make a decision. Every claim is looked at closely based on its own details.

To ensure you receive your benefits quickly, it is recommended that you register to receive direct deposit. You can do so here.

 

Your case worker will connect with you remotely, either by phone or secure message in WCB Online. Similarly, please stay connected with your employer, and your health services provider.

 

Your work puts you on the frontline of this global pandemic. The service and supports you provide are important to the overall health care response, but nothing is more important than your own personal health and safety, and the safety of your family and loved ones. If you have any concerns related to the safety of doing your job, or concerns about the lack of Personal Protective Equipment, please reach out to your Employee Relations Officer or contact the NSGEU directly at 902-424-4063 or 1-877-556-7438.

 

For more information on the Workers Compensation Board, visit their website here.

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