Problem
Greg is a 38-year-old sawyer in a unionized wood processing plant. He earns $48,000 a year. While working with machinery he almost amputates his hand. His doctor estimates that he will be off work for three months and will lose fifty percent of the functionality of his hand. His supervisor believes that Greg will not be able to do his former job safely if this is the case.
Outcome one is that after four months away from work, a position as a lumber grader becomes open. A decision is made to move Greg to this job.
Outcome two is that Greg cannot return to his job as a sawyer. As a result of economic conditions there are no suitable available jobs at the plant.
The scenario above gives you an opportunity to compare what happens when an employee who is injured in an occupational incident returns to work and when they do not. Based on the two outcomes described in the case study below (job available with the previous employer, job not available), write a report that answers the following questions. Remember to include information about both outcomes.
1) Describe the forms that would have to be filled out to meet workers' compensation requirements in your province. Choose a Canadian jurisdiction for the purpose of this assignment.
2) Explain the rationale for the compensation benefits that would be provided and how these would be calculated based on processes in your own province--including the information required to calculate benefits, and the differences between temporary benefits, permanent awards and maximum medical recovery.
3) Describe any rehabilitation services that might be provided and who would pay for these.
4) Describe what the workers' compensation involvement in the return-to-work planning and implementation would likely be in your province.
5) List the components that might be involved in a return to work plan, the estimated cost, who would be likely to cover those costs and why.