Workers with Disabilities Committee
Workplace Injury & WCB Support
If you've been injured at work or developed an illness because of your job, you have rights — and navigating WorkSafeBC (WCB) can be complicated. Your union can help.
First steps
If you're injured at work
Report your injury to your employer immediately—delays can affect your claim and your rights.
Seek medical attention and tell your doctor the injury happened at work so it is properly documented.
File a claim with WorkSafeBC as soon as possible—there are time limits for filing.
If you are unsure of next steps, contact your steward. Note that stewards can help you understand your collective agreement rights, but WCB claims are complex—your union office can connect you with someone who specializes in this area.
Benefits
What WorkSafeBC covers
WorkSafeBC provides benefits for workers injured on the job, including:
- Wage loss benefits if you cannot work
- Coverage for medical treatment and rehabilitation
- Vocational rehabilitation if you cannot return to your previous job
- Permanent disability benefits if your injury results in a lasting impairment that affects your ability to earn income
Return to work
Your employer's obligations
As of January 2024, BC employers have new legal duties to cooperate with injured workers returning to work. Employers with 20 or more workers must accommodate injured workers to the point of undue hardship.
If you receive a decision from WCB that you disagree with and wish to appeal, please reach out to the Compensation Appeals team at [email protected].
If you don't believe your employer is meeting their required obligations, please connect with your steward or area office.
If your claim is denied
Appealing a WCB decision
You have the right to appeal a WorkSafeBC decision. Time limits apply so contact your union office as soon as possible if your claim is denied or your benefits are reduced.
If you receive a decision from WCB that you disagree with and wish to appeal, please reach out to the Compensation Appeals team at [email protected].
If you don't believe your employer is meeting their required obligations, please connect with your steward or area office.
Mental health
Mental health and workplace injury
WorkSafeBC may accept claims related to mental health injuries sustained at or aggravated by work. The bar for acceptance is high—a formal diagnosis from a psychiatrist or psychologist is required, and the injury must be directly connected to a specific workplace event or significant work-related stressor. Contact your union office if you think your situation may qualify.
LTD & Appeals
Long-term disability & WCB appeals
The BCGEU maintains a dedicated page with documents and information to help members navigate long-term disability claims and WCB appeals. The link below includes intake forms, FAQs, and appeal guides.
Note: Some documents below are for direct government employees only. Please check the document description before using.
Available for all members
Acknowledgement
This page is maintained by the BCGEU Workers with Disabilities Committee, with feedback and input from committee members.
This is a living resource. We welcome your feedback and will continue to update this page as member needs evolve. To suggest additions or changes, email [email protected].