What does workers' compensation provide for workers in Canada?

Workers' compensation in Canada is specifically designed to provide financial support and compensation to workers who sustain injuries or develop illnesses as a direct result of their job. The primary purpose of this system is to ensure that employees receive the necessary care and support to recover from workplace-related injuries, while also protecting employers from litigation. Under workers' compensation, injured workers are entitled to receive benefits that cover medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and lost wages resulting from time off work due to their injury.

While job retraining programs, health insurance coverage, and pension benefits after retirement may be important components of an overall benefits package, they do not fall under the specific provisions that workers' compensation addresses. Instead, the focus of workers' compensation is narrowed down to those who are directly impacted by workplace accidents or occupational diseases, which emphasizes the significance of rehabilitation and financial compensation for affected employees. This defined role reinforces the importance of safety and accountability in the workplace.