Services include:
- Counselling regarding filing claims, disputes, medical issues
- WSIB file management and case review
- Liaison with WSIB and WSIAT (Tribunal) personnel
- Pre-hearing preparation, including scheduling of hearings
- Worker & witness depositions and accident investigations
- Present & argue WSIB appeals on behalf of members.
- Request medical reports for adjudication and appeals
- Communicate with medical and health care professionals
- Coordinate Return to Work (RTW) programs
- Attend & represent members in WSIB investigations
- Provide representation in re-employment situations
- File Industrial Disease Claims e.g., Asbestosis & Noise Induced Hearing Loss
- Attend meetings with Vocational Rehabilitation Counsellors
- Critique & provide input into Labour Market Re-entry Plans (LMRP)
- Counselling & advice on Canada Pension Plan Disability Benefits (CPP)
Local 353 has been a leader in the area of Occupational Health & Safety, and the WSIB Service is an outgrowth of the IBEW's commitment to represent our active and retired members. There are many occupational hazards and risks that our members are exposed to every day, and our members need protection in dealing with employers who know the rules and are well versed in challenging WSIB claims. In addition, the rules and legislation have changed considerably (5 times) in the past 15 years, which makes dealing with worker's compensation an extremely complicated and frustrating process.
In January 1998, the Province of Ontario amended the Workers Compensation Act through Bill 99, ushering in regressive changes that have proven detrimental to our membership. Local 353 believes that when a member's claim is delayed or denied it is also the worker's family that suffers. That's why our philosophy is; An Injury To One, Is An Injury To All. The union is here to help you.
|
