Blue Collar Consulting
946 East Gate NW T6R 3L6 Edmonton, AB, Canada

A question from Jim: WCB is threatening to cut my benefits if I don't work modified duties. I keep telling them it hurts too much, but they don't seem to care. What can I do? Answer: WCB expects injured workers to cooperate with their employer regarding a return to work. Typically this means maintaining regular communication, updating on medical developments and prognosis, as well as participating in a modified work program that facilitates an eventual resumption of regular d...uties. However, WCB will not override the advice of your doctor or any other healthcare practitioner. Only you know your body, and if the modified duties mandated by your employer are excessively painful, you have every right to refuse. You would be wise to visit your medical practitioner to explain the situation. Explain why the modified duties are inappropriate, and ask how they might be redesigned to suit your functional capacity. Have the medical provider put her recommendations in writing and submit to your case worker. This action ought to be sufficient to maintain your benefit entitlements while you make a marked improvement on redesigned accommodations.

WCB denied your claim? We ensure injured workers get a fair shake. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xAsQPcTZ8W8

Dear Blue Collar, The other day a worker made himself a cup of instant coffee. He put a cup of water in the lunchroom microwave, nuked it for a couple minutes, took it out, dropped in the coffee powder, and the whole thing exploded like somebody slipped dynamite into the Nescafe jar. The worker was scalded and will be on modified duties for a time. Is this a WCB claim? Answer: Like the answer to every good question, it depends. Because the injury required medical attention (I...'m assuming) and the disability will extend beyond the date of accident, this is probably a claim -- that is, if the incident was work related. When did the incident occur? During a break or lunch hour? Who did the cup belong to -- the worker or employer? The details matter. For example, if the worker was on lunch and filled his own cup, then WCB is likely to reject the claim. On the other hand, if the mug was company property, the incident is surely reportable. If you haven't already done so, interview the worker to clarify the circumstances.