The Workplace Safety and Insurance Board is seeking public feedback on its plans to support employees who suffer from work-related chronic mental stress.
The organization’s consultation on chronic mental stress follows up on the government of Ontario’s proposed legislation in its 2017 budget to expand the entitlement for injured around for compensation for work-related chronic mental stress.
“Good mental health is key to having healthy and productive workplaces,” said Tom Teahen, president and chief executive officer at the WSIB, in a release. “We’re asking Ontarians — businesses and workers — for their feedback on our plans to implement service to support people suffering from work-related chronic mental stress.”
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According to the WSIB, work-related chronic mental stress results from stressors that aren’t necessarily traumatic but would be excessive in intensity and duration in comparison to normal pressures. For example, a worker who faces continual harassment or bullying may qualify for compensation while one who’s upset with changes to work schedules or a demotion may not.
“Early intervention is essential to recovery, and we want anyone suffering from work-related chronic mental stress to get the support and help they need to return to work,” said Teahen. “We look forward to people’s input as we look to create a strong program.”
The consultation is open for comments until July 7, 2017.