Role and Function of the Workers' Compensation Board

Introduction to the Workers' Compensation Board (WCB)

  • The Workers' Compensation Board (WCB) was established by the government.
  • Its primary role is to administer the Workers' Compensation Act for both workers and employers within the province.
  • The WCB is financially supported by employers.
  • It aims to offer cost-effective disability and liability insurance coverage to employees.
  • This coverage ensures that injured workers can be compensated for various costs resulting from a work-related injury, including: lost income, healthcare expenses, and other incurred costs (Workers Compensation Board-Alberta, 2016).

Nature of the WCB System

  • The WCB operates as a "no-fault insurance system."
  • This means injured workers are eligible to receive benefits for work-related injuries irrespective of who was at fault.
  • Coverage Limitation: An injured worker is only covered if the company they work for has contributed to the WCB insurance scheme.

Goals and Methods of the WCB

  • Primary Goal: The central objective of the WCB is to facilitate the return of injured workers to their employment.
  • Methods to Achieve Goal:
    • The WCB provides rehabilitation services to injured workers.
    • It also offers modified work programs.
  • Explanation of Modified Work Programs:
    • These programs assess an injured worker's capacity to realistically perform work.
    • They then inform the employer about the amount of time the injured worker can work safely and effectively.
    • Example: A modified work program for an injured worker might entail working only 22 days a week, as opposed to their regular 55 days (Workers Compensation Board-Alberta, 2016).

Claim Process and Benefits

  • When a worker sustains an injury, they are required to complete a claim/application form.
  • This form is supplied by the employer.
  • The nature and extent of the benefits an injured worker receives are directly contingent upon whether their claim is accepted or rejected (Government of Alberta, 2013).