Report from the OH&S Canada magazine (Spring 2022)
Workplace injury insurance for Nova Scotia firefighters and their families will soon cover more types of cancer and heart attacks, the province said.
Presumptive coverage in being increased from six types of cancer to 19, and also includes heart attacks that occur within 24 hours of an emergency call.
“Firefighters put their health at risk and their lives on the line every day,” said Premier Tim Houston.
“Those who protect us should, in turn, be protected by their government and have access to the workplace injury coverage they need when they need it.”
The additional coverage will be in amendments to the Firefighters Compensation Regulations under the Workers’ Compensation Act.
The 13 types of cancer being added are:
- Esophageal
- Lung
- Testicular
- Ureter
- Breast
- Multiple myeloma
- Prostrate
- Skin
- Ovarian
- Cervical
- Penile
- Thyroid, and
There is existing coverage for bladder, brain, colorectal and kidney cancer, leukemia and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. The province will cover the total liability of $80,600,00 for four fiscal years. Municipalities will not incur additional liability costs until 2025-26.
There are more than 6,000 volunteer firefighters and 600 paid firefighters in Nova Scotia.
My opinion
The need to protect our firefighters has always been there but there was never any proof that many types of cancers could be caused on the job when they were fighting fires.
“Firefighters die of cancer at a rate up to four times higher than the general population. On average, 50 to 60 firefighters die of cancer yearly in Canada, and half of those are from Ontario. Proposed changes by the government will streamline the assessment of WSIB claims by presuming they are work-related.”
Since the long-term data seems to present good evidence on this issue, the need for legislation change is also necessary.
Good for you, Nova Scotia!
HRS Group Inc. has a great team that can help you with all your health and safety needs. Contact Deborah toll free at 1-877-907-7744 or locally at 705-749-1259.
Ensure your workplace is a safe place.
Remember – In Canada, “ALL Accidents are Preventable”
‘Work’ and ‘Play’ safe.
Daniel L. Beal
CHSEP – Advanced Level
CEO & Senior Trainer
HRS Group Inc.