- Re-employment (non-compliance) (payments)
- Re-employment (obligation to re-employ)
The worker suffered a neck and back injury in February 2009, for which he was granted a 38% NEL award. The worker appealed a decision of the Appeals Resolution Officer finding that the employer did not breach its re-employment obligations.
The worker was not able to perform the essential duties of his pre-injury employment. However, by mid-February 2010, he was medically able to perform suitable work. As such, under s. 41(5) of the WSIA, the employer was required to offer the worker the first opportunity to accept suitable employment that may become available. However, the employer failed to provide the worker suitable modified duties, without explanation and without evidence of undue hardship. The Panel concluded that the employer breached its re-employment obligations.The worker was entitled to benefits for one year under s. 41(13)(b) as if he was entitled to full LOE benefits. The worker was sponsored in a four-week job search training program. On the evidence, the worker did not require additional LMR services.The appeal was allowed in part.