Workers’ Compensation Advocacy Training
Last updated on March 25, 2024The Workers’ Advisers office offers the following workers’ compensation advocacy training to improve understanding of the workers’ compensation system and promote a culture of meritorious representation of issues. These sessions are held for labour representatives and others who represent injured workers with their WorkSafeBC claims. We will also provide on-site courses on request.
Level I: Introduction to Workers Compensation Advocacy Training
2024 Dates TBA
This course provides a basic overview of the workers' compensation system and is intended for those who are new to working in this area. In this course, you will learn about the history and principles of the workers' compensation system, as well as the advantages of the workers compensation system. You will also learn about how the workers' compensation system is administered. Topics will include: determining entitlement, reporting a claim, wage loss benefits, setting the wage rate, returning to work, and permanent disability awards. You will also learn about the process for reopening and reconsideration, and about discriminatory action claims.
Completion of Level I is a prerequisite for attending Level II or Advanced Courses.
Level II: Basic Oral and Written Representation
2024 Dates TBA
This course builds upon the information and skills learned in Level I. In this course, you will learn about the process for initiating a review to the Review Division and an appeal to the Workers’ Compensation Appeal Tribunal. You will learn how to obtain the documents and evidence you need for an appeal, and how to develop your case plan for the appeal. You will learn about the written submission process, as well as oral hearings and the post hearing process.
Completion of Level I is a prerequisite for attending Level II and Advanced Courses.
Permanent Disability Benefits
2024 Dates TBA
In this session you will learn about permanent total disability and permanent partial disability benefits, as well as benefits for disfigurement, proportionate entitlement, commutations and Loss of Earnings.
Completion of Level I and II is a prerequisite for this course.
Wage Rates
2024 Dates TBA
In this session you will learn about the importance, type and categorization of wage rates, initial and long term wage rates, how wage rates are established, and what is included in ‘average earnings’.
Completion of Level I and II is a prerequisite for this course.