WSIB Eliminates Cost Relief Benefit for Employers

Suddenly, unexpectedly and without consultation, the WSIB announced that it is eliminating the Second Injury Enhancement Fund (SIEF).

SIEF provided employers with cost relief in circumstances in which one of their workers  who had a pre-existing injury, suffered a subsequent injury and the pre-existing condition contributed to the cause of the subsequent injury or prolonged the claim period of that second injury.  It allowed employers to hire workers with pre-existing conditions or disabilities with a level of comfort and confidence.  The program’s cancellation is nothing short of outrageous.

The consulting firm Deloitte’s had conducted a value-for-money audit on SIEF on behalf of the WSIB.  The audit, which included minimal consultation with employers, concluded that SIEF could be modified and refined to better align the program’s original intent.

There has been no indication from the WSIB that a new program for employers to replace SIEF will be introduced.

Prior to the unanticipated notice about the SIEF cancellation, COCA and the Ontario Business Coalition (OBC) made it clear in terms that were unequivocal, both in-person with and in writing to senior officials at the provincial workers compensation agency, that employers place high value on SIEF and that it should not be touched.

The Ontario Business Coalition has written the Premier and the Minister of Labour asking them to have this decision by the WSIB reversed and SIEF reinstated.  A letter writing campaign has also been initiated.

Here are the details from the WSIB:

https://www.wsib.ca/en/operational-policy-manual/second-injury-and-enhancement-fund-sief

Here’s advice from our valued member Sherrard-Kuzz LLP:

https://www.sherrardkuzz.com/newsblast/sief-relief-ends-what-ontario-employers-need-to-know/