Workers - WorkSafeNB

[return to work]
The WHSCC is responsible for providing you with fair compensation
and services that help you return to work. The Commission will support
you in your job search efforts.
Does my employer have to give me a job
when I am ready to return to work?
Your employer has a legal obligation to make
every reasonable effort, short of undue hardship,
to accommodate you if you suffer a temporary or
permanent disability resulting from a workrelated
accident. These obligations stem from
section 3 of the Human Rights (HR) Act of
New Brunswick, and section 42.1 of the WC Act.
While you (and your union) have a duty to
cooperate with, and participate in the accommodation
process, the primary responsibility rests
with your employer who has the ultimate control
over the workplace. Your employer must make
every reasonable effort to accommodate the
particular needs of your disability in your return
to work.
Will the Commission find me a job?
No, the Commission will not find you a job. The
WHSCC is responsible for providing you with fair
compensation and services that help you return
to work. The Commission will support you in your
job search efforts and in doing so, may provide
up to 13 weeks of benefits.
The Commission has a new incentive pilot project
to encourage injured workers to actively search
for and secure suitable and sustainable employment
during the job search period. You might
qualify for a $6,000 bonus if you:
• Have a permanent work restriction due to
your workplace injury.
• Do not receive vocational retraining as part of
your rehabilitation plan.
• Are considered capable of returning to some
suitable employment.
• Secure suitable employment during the
Commission-approved job search period,
with earnings greater than or equal to your
capable earnings estimated by the
Commission.
To receive this incentive, you will also be
required to keep your employment and maintain
or exceed the wage level for the period
listed below:
• $1,000 bonus at the completion of the 2nd
month of employment.
• $2,000 bonus at the completion of the 6th
month of employment.
• $3,000 bonus at the completion of the 12th
month of employment.
What happens if I am considered medically fit
to return to the same type of job I had when
I was hurt, but I cannot find work?
If you cannot return to work because of a poor
job market or another reason not related to your
injury, workers’ compensation benefits will not
cover you. If this happens, you may need to
apply for another type of insurance coverage
such as federal Employment Insurance or CPP
Disability benefits.
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