Workplace romance leads to costly WCB claim

Dear Blue Collar,

It’s come to our attention that a member of our executive team was romantically involved with one of his direct reports. The extra-marital relationship carried on in secret until he evidently broke it off, after which his spurned lover filed a claim with WCB. The claim cites a “toxic workplace” as the cause of her mental injury; specifically, a “male-dominated, chauvinistic culture and management’s insensitive behavior.” Where do we go from here?

Answer: Your employer should find a good lawyer with experience in this area. To our knowledge, seldom do the Courts view superior-subordinate relationships as truly consensual, hence your legal exposure (to say nothing of the potential damage to your company’s brand following an embarrassing scandal) is considerable.

In Blue Collar’s non-legal opinion, a WCB claim may be the best possible outcome in this scenario. In most cases, once a WCB claim is accepted, an employee’s ‘right to sue’ becomes statute-barred. In other words, the worker’s recourse to civil remedies—should the WCB claim be accepted—would be greatly diminished. Although you’re facing an expensive disability claim, the Workers’ Comp Act may in fact provide invaluable protection.

Call (780)-340-5727 to speak with our 541 Eagleson Wynd, Edmonton T6M 0Y4 team for free.
Picture of 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.

Picture of 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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