Workers Compensation Act changes require employer to find work for injured employees

VICTORIA — Changes to the Workers Compensation Act in British Columbia will require employers to ensure injured workers can return to their job or find an equivalent once they are recovered.

The changes will come into effect on Jan. 1, 2024. The particular provision will require employers and injured workers to co-operate with each other and WorkSafeBC to get the employee back to work.

The change is referred to as a “duty-to-co-operate provision” and will only impact employers with 20 or more employees, according to a news release.

Employers will also be required to make necessary workplace changes to accommodate the employee, to the point of undue hardship.

The requirements, established in Bill 41, also gives WorkSafeBC the power to impose penalties on employers who fail to comply.