A CTV News post – dated January 6, 2021, has caught our attention at Watson Labour Law. For those who may not be familiar with the news reporting, we were informed of the plight of a dedicated unionized Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) who dedicated her life to helping and caring for the most vulnerable in our society and sadly passed away during the COVID-19 pandemic here in Ontario. Her workplace has apparently been cited as a COVID-19 hotspot and sadly we understand the deceased leaves behind two children.
It is important for Watson Labour Law readers to know their rights. The Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) provide for ‘Survivors’ Benefits’. If you are a spouse or dependent of a loved one who has sadly passed away as a result of a workplace injury or illness, you can claim “survivor benefits”.
A spouse and/or dependent children may be entitled to monthly payments depending on the individual circumstances of the claim. Funeral expenses and counselling are also considerations the WSIB will look at to ensure survivors receive the full extent of their entitlement under the Workplace Safety and Insurance Act.
If you have any questions about Workplace Safety and Insurance, contact us at Watson Labour Law. We are here to help !