Toronto, September 18, 2017 – The Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) announced today that a Dedicated Review Team will re-examine more than 250 claims filed since 2004 that had not previously been allowed.
"We want to make sure we are applying the latest science and evidence to make decisions about these claims," said Armando Fatigati, WSIB Vice President of Complex Claims. "The Peterborough community has presented information that helps clarify the exposures people had to various chemicals and substances. We'll be looking at what they were exposed to, how much of it they were exposed to, and how long people were exposed to these chemicals and substances."
The review will look at both cancer and non-cancer related claims and will be focused on:
- Some types of cancer where updated scientific research supports linkages between specific levels of chemical exposures and specific illnesses.
- Claims where advances in technology may allow next-of-kin to be identified who had previously not been.
- Claims where a greater understanding of the intensity of exposure and/or number of agents exposed to, may impact the decision.
Fatigati noted that since 1993 decisions have been made in over 2,400 claims related to GE Peterborough with over 80% allowed. He also noted there may be more new claims yet to be filed with the WSIB.
"If you worked at GE Peterborough and think you may have a work-related illness but are not sure you have a claim with the WSIB, we want to hear from you," Fatigati said. "If you qualify for additional health services or benefits, we want you to get them as quickly as possible."
People can call 1-800-387-0750 or visit wsib.ca/GEPeterborough to learn more and file a claim.
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For further information, please contact:
WSIB media relations
media@wsib.on.ca
416-344-4202