September 29, 2022
Keeping Workers Safe During Storm Clean Up
Charlottetown, September 29, 2022 – The Workers Compensation Board (WCB) has practical resources available to keep workers safe as the clean-up from post-tropical storm Fiona continues across the province. The WCB has many resources available to support employers and workers alike and it has compiled these resources in one easy-to-find location on its website. The topics covered include safety for workers and contractors new to a job, using ladders or cranes, using a chainsaw, avoiding working fatigued and using gas or propane fueled equipment. Resources can be found here: http://wcb.pe.ca/fiona “Fiona left much damage as she tore through our province on September 24. Our shared experience with similar weather related events tells us that the clean-up will take some time. Many employers are quickly onboarding new workers to respond to the many needs our communities are experiencing. As they do, we encourage them to keep safety top of mind as these new workers may not be familiar with hazards, equipment and associated safety procedures,” said Cheryl Paynter, CEO of the Workers Compensation Board. The WCB would like to remind all Islanders that urgent workplace health and safety matters can be reported anytime by calling its Occupational Health and Safety emergency line at 902-628-7513. This emergency line is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including during statutory holidays. -30-
September 28, 2022
WCB Supports Injured Workers Following Post-Tropical Storm Fiona
Charlottetown, September 28, 2022 – In the aftermath of post-tropical storm Fiona, the Workers Compensation Board (WCB) of PEI is connecting directly with injured workers to reassure them that their payments are on the way. With power restored at its downtown Charlottetown location, WCB essential services staff have been answering calls and also directly calling injured workers to share information about claim payments. Injured workers with previously set up direct deposits might experience a slight delay in those direct deposits due to the WCB office closure earlier this week. For injured workers still receiving cheques, a pick up or mail out option has already been made available to them. Upcoming payments should not be affected. “WCB offices are operational again and we have essentials services staff here on site to assist our clients. Our priority is to make sure injured workers receive their claims in a timely manner. Workplace injuries come with a financial burden and our goal is to alleviate this burden. Our own WCB staff has also been severely impacted by the storm, with many of them still without power and sometimes water. I personally want to thank them for their dedication in supporting our clients,” said Cheryl Paynter, CEO of the Workers Compensation Board. Injured workers who experience delays in claim payments can call the WCB at 902-368-5680 or toll free 1-800-237-5049 during business hours of 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. for information and support. Please note that September 30, 2022, is an official holiday and our offices will be closed that day in recognition of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. -30-
