Workers’ Compensation Advocacy Training
Last updated on July 24, 2024The Workers’ Advisers Office offers free training sessions intended to enhance participants’ knowledge of the Workers’ Compensation system, prohibited action issues, and occupational health and safety complaints. These sessions are designed specifically for representatives of injured workers. We also provide in-person and topic-specific sessions on request. If you are interested in hosting a training session, please contact us at Outreach@wao-bc.org.
Introduction to the Workers’ Advisers Office
September 5 and October 10, 2024, 10 am to 11:30 am
In this session, we cover our organization’s mandate and discuss the services we can provide to injured workers and/or their representatives. We explain how we provide advice and when we can represent workers during an appeal. We also discuss how and when to contact our office.
Register for the:
Workers’ Advisers Office – Workers’ Compensation Overview
September 12, October 24 and December 5, 2024, 9 am to noon
In this session, we cover the principles of the Workers’ Compensation system and the role of WorkSafeBC. Topics include who is eligible for compensation, how to file a claim, and the stages of a claim. We discuss how WorkSafeBC calculates benefits for injured workers and provide an overview of return-to-work responsibilities for workers and employers.
Previously this session was known as Level One.
Register for the:
Workers’ Advisers Office - Reviews and Appeals
September 26, November 7 and December 12, 2024, 9 am to noon
In this session, we cover the responsibilities and best practices for workers’ representatives. This includes how to develop a case plan, apply relevant laws and policies, and assess evidence. We explain who can appeal a WorkSafeBC decision and how to start a review or appeal. We discuss the appeal process and the steps for preparing an appeal including collecting evidence, writing submissions, and preparing workers for oral hearings.
Previously this session was known as Level Two. Completion of the Workers' Compensation Overview is required before taking this course.
Register for the:
Workers’ Advisers Office – Mental Disorder Claims
November 21, 2024, 10 am to noon
In this session, we cover the required criteria to have a mental disorder claim accepted. We discuss traumatic events, significant work-related stressors and claims related to bullying and harassment. We cover employer actions that are excluded from claims. We also discuss occupations that have a presumption under the legislation.
Completion of the Workers' Compensation Overview is recommended before taking this course.
Register for this session.
Permanent Disability Benefits
2024 Dates TBA
This session is under revision.
Wage Rates
2024 Dates TBA
This session is under revision.