Psychological claims are spiking

WCB claims for psych injuries are up 2700%—even before COVID-19. And notice how the 2019 figures merely represent the mid-year count (July YTD). Furthermore, these statistics only capture primary psychological injuries, not secondary psych injuries (i.e. depression resulting from a workplace injury). If secondary were added, the trend line would shoot off the page and run down the street.

The spike isn’t attributable to First Responders (red), but rather, is being driven by corporate staff, salespeople, managers, admin workers, etc. Burnout, anxiety, & depression due to interpersonal conflicts, bullying, excessive workloads, & a perceived lack of social justice in the workplace—are reportedly the primary drivers.

WCB costs stemming from psych injuries are twice that of musculoskeletal (sprains, strains, fractures). Recovery duration is also double versus musculoskeletal.

Construction companies might consider how a surge in psych claims will disqualify them from bidding jobs. Even a spotless safety record on the worksite can be negated by a single case of depression in the accounting department.

For information on how to protect yourself, tune into Blue Collar’s webinar this Thursday (June 11th) at 11am.

https://lnkd.in/gZECJM4
Call (780)-340-5727 to speak with our 541 Eagleson Wynd, Edmonton T6M 0Y4 team for free.
Ben Barfett

Ben Barfett

Ben Barfett, Principal and Consultant, has spent his life in the construction sector, specifically heavy civil, enviro, commercial, and energy. Having held senior roles in business development, technical advisory, and regional management, he earned his stripes in the field and in head office. Conscious of the interplay between commercial, legal, and execution aspects of construction, his business insights are informed by expertise in WCB policy and enhanced with disability-specific training.

Ben Barfett

Ben Barfett

Ben Barfett, Principal and Consultant, has spent his life in the construction sector, specifically heavy civil, enviro, commercial, and energy. Having held senior roles in business development, technical advisory, and regional management, he earned his stripes in the field and in head office. Conscious of the interplay between commercial, legal, and execution aspects of construction, his business insights are informed by expertise in WCB policy and enhanced with disability-specific training.

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.

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