Workers’ Compensation Advocacy Training

Last updated on December 18, 2024

The 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

March 20, 2025, 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 this session.


 

Workers’ Advisers Office – Workers’ Compensation Overview

February 6, 2025, 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 this session.


 

Workers’ Advisers Office - Reviews and Appeals

February 27, 2025, 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 this session.


 

Workers’ Advisers Office – Mental Disorder Claims

January 16, 2025, 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 sesssion.


 

Permanent Disability Benefits

2025 Dates TBA

This session is under revision.


 

Wage Rates

2025 Dates TBA

This session is under revision.