This policy has not been amended to reflect the
Workplace Safety and Insurance Act and Regulations made under it
Policy
Silicosis is an industrial disease listed in Schedule 3 to the Act. If a worker files a claim for disablement due to this disease, silicosis is deemed to have been due to the nature of the worker’s employment, provided the employment is a process, trade or occupation set out in Column 2 of Schedule 3 next to “silicosis”.
Guidelines
General Principles
A clear and adequate history of at least 2 years of occupational exposure to silica dust must be established. A diagnosis of silicosis must exist.
If a diagnosis of pneumoconiosis is confirmed on initial Board examination permanent impairment awards are paid from the date of claim submission or earlier where supported by medical evidence.
If a diagnosis of pneumoconiosis is confirmed at a subsequent Board examination permanent impairment awards commence three months prior to this examination or earlier where supported by medical evidence.
References
Legislative authority
Workers’ Compensation Act
Sections 1(1)(n), 1(1)(x), 122
Regulation 951
Section 11 and Schedule 3
Minute
Board of Directors
#10, November 17, 1978, Page 4672
Board Directive
#7, November 18, 1975