Rising number of claims and associated costs highlight the need for enhanced worker safety measures in Winnipeg
Amidst growing worries about new job-related dangers and mental health challenges, the City of Winnipeg has seen a significant rise in work-related injury and illness claims.
According to a report, in 2022, the city's staff filed 1,254 injury and illness claims, marking a 27% increase from the previous year. Municipal costs associated with these claims also surged to $16.4 million, up from $13.8 million in 2021.
The concerning trend extends to claims for time lost, which witnessed an even steeper increase of 33 percent. The number of such claims jumped from 691 to 919 over the same period. City of Winnipeg chief administrative officer Michael Jack expressed his disappointment with these figures, stating, "To be up 27 percent year over year is not where we want it to be."
Moreover, the report outlined the financial implications associated with workplace injuries and illnesses. In 2022, the total costs linked to these incidents, including direct hours lost, rehabilitation expenses, and Workers Compensation Board claim administration fees, reached a staggering $16.4 million. This represents an 18 percent increase compared to the previous year.
Gord Delbridge, president of the Canadian Union of Public Employees Local 500, expressed concern over staff members facing confrontations from vulnerable individuals while performing their duties.
Delbridge highlighted the impact of unwanted encounters on employees working in libraries, parks, and outdoor settings. He attributed the rise in injuries partially to the delay in filling staff positions, leading to increased workloads and reduced support from colleagues.
The City of Winnipeg acknowledged the various factors contributing to the claim increase, including the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, physical and mental stress, reduced stigma around mental health issues, and incidents of violence or threats involving weapons.
City officials expressed concern about the safety of their crews when encountering agitated individuals or those in mental health crises.
Michael Jack, Winnipeg's chief administrative officer, emphasized the city's commitment to protecting its employees, acknowledging the challenges faced by public works, Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service, and Winnipeg Police Service staff when dealing with physical violence or trauma-related situations.
“We have standard operating procedures across the organization… We don’t place someone in an unsafe position just because there may be fewer people in that division," he said.
A chart revealed higher injury rates per 100 workers in these departments compared to the city's overall rate.
To address these issues, the city has introduced employee support programs and attained SAFE Work certification, allowing external audits of certain departments to ensure compliance with safety and health standards.
Mayor Scott Gillingham emphasized the city's dedication to reducing injuries year by year, while the Transit Advisory Committee explores long-term safety plans for Winnipeg Transit.
The report also highlighted the prevalence of mental health-related claims, which may be due to decreased stigma and increased awareness.
Jack noted that physical injuries often stemmed from falls, slips, trips, and overexertion. Additionally, claims related to COVID-19 accounted for a significant portion of time-loss claims.
Efforts are being made to mitigate these issues, including the establishment of a behavioural health unit within the fire-paramedic service, adjustment of protocols to address crew safety concerns, and the allocation of funds for a new transit security team.
However, concerns remain regarding the alarming increase in workers' compensation claims, necessitating ongoing efforts to improve staff safety and well-being within the City of Winnipeg.
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