Prevention Link’s Workplace Mental Health Injuries workshop is ideal for workers’ compensation representatives who have some case work experience and are looking to gain more knowledge on mental health injury claims. This workshop will provide participants with a better understanding of mental health and illness, stigma and discrimination, and how conditions are diagnosed and what treatment options are available. Specific to workers’ compensation, the workshop explores which mental health injuries are covered by WSIB policy and law, how such claims are adjudicated, and applicable legal principles. The workshop will conclude with a review of case law examples, sample medical reports and group discussion.

In today’s world, evidence comes in many forms. Many representatives are confident working with the traditional types of evidence available in WSIB files. However, as we increasingly rely on computers and digital platforms, newer forms of evidence in digital and electronic formats are being submitted to WSIB files.  It is no surprise that this new digital evidence has some unique challenges which is the focus of this workshop. Through a series of exercises, participants will learn how to argue the admissibility of electronic evidence as well as how much weight a decision-maker should assign to that type of evidence.

Mental illness is considered the number one cause of workplace disability in Canada. Yet, stigma around the topic is a key reason why many Ontarians don’t talk about mental illness in their workplaces. This half-day workshop is your chance to become more informed and talk more openly about mental health in the workplace.

Participants will learn how to promote a greater understanding of occupational mental health and illness. The discussion includes a demonstration of Mindsight, an online educational resource to reduce stigma by promoting awareness of mental illness, and facilitating a greater understanding of basic strategies and resources for supporting individuals experiencing a mental health challenge..

Who should attend: WSIB Representatives, RTW Specialists, Health & Safety reps, Human Resources, Workplace Leadership and Union Stewards

With a focus on the protected ground of disability and the social area of employment, this workshop will advance a participant’s understanding of human rights legislation.

We will explore definitions of discrimination, outline the requirements for requesting and responding to accommodation needs, and examine what constitutes “undue hardship.”