An occupational disease results from exposure to a substance relating to a particular process, trade or occupation in an industry, a disease peculiar to or characteristic of a particular industrial process, trade or occupation, a medical condition that in the opinion of the Board requires a worker to be removed either temporarily or permanently from exposure to a substance because the condition may be a precursor to an occupational disease, a disease mentioned in Schedule 3 or 4 or a disease prescribed in Schedule 3 or 4, or a disease prescribed under clause 15.1(8) (d)

If you have been exposed to toxic substances at work and have developed a physical condition that keeps you from working, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. We work with you at all stages of a WSIB case stemming from an occupational disease, helping you gather all the necessary information so that you can properly prepare and file your claim for benefits.

We protect the rights of workers who have developed any type of occupational disease, such as sarcoidosis, leukemia, heart attacks, rheumatoid arthritis, asbestosis, mesothelioma, occupational asthma, cancer, multiple chemical sensitivities or lung and skin diseases. If you or your loved one has been exposed to hazardous substances that have led to the onset and development of an occupational disease, contact us today to schedule a case evaluation.

It’s to your benefit to cooperate in your return to health and your safe return to work. As a person receiving WSIB benefits, it’s also your responsibility. Most workers are helpful and cooperative in this matter. But in rare cases where a worker is determined by the WSIB to be uncooperative, the worker’s benefits may be reduced to 50%, or discontinued after a continued period of non-cooperation.

To receive WSIB benefits, you must:

• Cooperate in your recovery by following the treatment and health care prescribed by your healthcare professionals.
• Have health examinations as required by the WSIB. The WSIB may require a health exam if it will help us make a decision as to your case, or if it will help you re-enter the job market. Your employer may request a health exam if it will provide significant new information regarding your case.
• Cooperate in your Work Reintegration program or your Work Transition program.
• Report any material change in your circumstances to the WSIB. Some examples of material changes are:
  • Any change to your income
  • Significant changes in your medical condition
  • Returning to work
• Provide any information that the WSIB needs to assess your claim.