April 2, 2020 - COVID-19 and WorkSafeBC Claims - Important Information for Employers

While employers have third party benefit providers that are aware of the claims management process concerning COVID-19, employers are advised to consult this WorkSafeBC Claims link to access WorkSafeBC-related claims information.

Please ensure workers are following your existing Worker Injury Reporting policy and that your third party benefit provider is engaged throughout the process.

By accessing your WorkSafeBC Employer Portal the employer will be able to monitor the status of worker claim(s). Employers can use WorkSafeBC online services to manage claims. If employers have further questions after viewing the workers claim online, please call the WorkSafeBC Claims Officer.

Employers can also call the WorkSafeBC Claims Call Centre at 1.888.967.5377 for assistance. For further information please call WorkSafeBC Contact Numbers for Emergency, Health and Safety, Claims and Insurance Assistance.

WorkSafeBC COVID-19 Claims FAQs

When could a COVID-19 claim be considered work related?

When a worker contracts COVID-19 as a direct result of their employment, they are entitled to compensation if the following conditions are met:

1. Evidence that the worker has contracted COVID-19, either through a medical diagnosis in a medical report, or non-medical factual evidence where other evidence establishes the existence of COVID-19.
2. The worker’s employment created a risk of contracting the disease significantly greater than the ordinary exposure risk of the public at large.

In the event you believe an employee contracted COVID-19 while at work, file a Form 7 to determine if the employee is eligible for workers’ compensation benefits.

Does WorkSafeBC cover people for a quarantine or self-isolation period?

No. WorkSafeBC does not provide coverage for people who, on a precautionary basis, are quarantined, self-isolating or sent home.

Is WorkSafeBC providing any relief on our payroll payment at this time?

WorkSafeBC is postponing Q1 2020 WorkSafeBC payment deadline until June 30, 2020 in light of COVID-19. Please go to this link for more information.

Important COVID-19 Resources

WorkSafeBC COVID-19 Updates

BC Ministry of Health has developed an online COVID-19 Symptom Self-Assessment Tool to help individuals to determine further testing for COVID-19.

Canadian Centre for Occupational Health & Safety has created free COVID-19-related online products and resources

To speak to a nurse if someone is experiencing potential COVID-19 symptoms, call 8-1-1 or consult HealthLink BC.

Public Health Agency Websites:

• BC Centre for Disease Control
• Public Health Agency of Canada