Most importantly, we printed 11,000 copies so each active and retired member receives a copy. In August 2007 every IBEW Local in Canada will receive a copy at the All Canada Progress Meeting where I have been invited by International Vice President, Phil Flemming, to make a presentation on our research findings.
We have also distributed copies to every WSIB adjudicator handling construction claims, Nurse Case Managers and the folks in the WSIB Specialist Advisory Services who assign investigators, mediators and ergonomists in disputed claims. I believe our study will be a handy reference tool and increase our credibility when advocating on behalf of members.
It is also anticipated this report will stimulate a discussion within the employer community and among foreman regarding best practices, medical information, and types of injuries they frequently encounter.
In my nine years representing LU 353 members I have been in a unique position to see the injury patterns in each sector. There is a continual demand for this kind of information from members, doctors, adjudicators and appeal forums. Now every member has this study at their disposal when discussing injuries with their health care professionals and employers. And that's what makes our project so unique. This information is now in your in hands so you can better understand how work impacts your health.
If you don't bring the report to your doctor - be sure it=s kept in a safe location for ease of reference. From my perspective, I believe this study has set the table for the next five to ten years. It all started with our successful Occupational Health Clinic (2005) and now followed-up by our Ergonomic Study. Combined, these two LU 353 initiatives have made our union a leader in health and safety, workers compensation and representing the membership. Talk to the other trades and members of other unions and see what their unions are doing.
However, this project would not have been possible without the political support of our Business Manager, Joe Fashion, who has always supported progressive initiatives and trusted my judgement, our Executive Board and the members at our monthly union meetings who supported my funding request.
And to the veterans, I didn't realize how much I absorbed listening to my father and other union activists from an earlier generation whose beliefs and vision laid the foundation for the great union we have today. It is my belief this Ergonomic Study has added to that legacy. It's also an example of what we can achieve when we work together.
Finally, I would like to thank brothers Bill Acorn, Tony Chiappetta, Cam Commandant, John Chapman, Bill Finnerty and George Smith who secured the cooperation of our participating contractors. Together they proved what contractor/union cooperation is all about. Special thanks to Jennifer Yorke my partner in crime. She learned a lot and came away with an education she will never forget. We too have benefitted from her efforts. And to our friends at the Occupational Health Clinics for Ontario Workers, they are such wonderful and caring professionals dedicated to helping our members with occupational health issues.
Finally, I want thank a special individual who needs no introduction. In April 2006 brother Sid Rozycki made a motion, which passed, to make me a member of LU 353. Making me a member of the IBEW was an honour, and this study is my thank you to all the members.
Gary Majesky
WSIB Consultant
Someone in Your Corner - A Motto We Strive To Live Up To |
