​VANFIRE Wellness

​​​Filing a psychological injury claim
When reporting a psychological injury claim to WorkSafeBC follow the steps outlined
above. In addition, to help the claim preceed more efficiently it is important to include
additional information.

Preparing your occupational exposure information
We encourage members to use the following template when documenting their
experiences and occupational exposures.
Psychological Injury – Member Statement

Psychological Injury – Member Statement 
(things you should answer in Comment Section of 6a Claim)

​“In the past ______ month(s) I have noticed significant psychological change in myself
such as but not limited to ________, ________, ________ (increased anger, difficulty
sleeping, increased anxiety, high emotions, low emotions, etc.)

These changes came as a result of the following workplace occupational stress events,
but are not limited to:

Event #1
Event #: ______________
Apparatus: ______________
While working in the capacity of (rank working): ______________
Apparatus Notes:

Event #2
Event #: ______________
Apparatus: ______________
While working in the capacity of (rank working): ______________
Apparatus Notes:

Event #3
Event #: ______________
Apparatus: ______________
While working in the capacity of (rank working): ______________
Apparatus Notes:
Exposure tabs are available if needed for further information."

​What should I be documenting?

When completing these claims consider whether you have noticed changes such as:

• Increased anger or irritability.
• Difficulty sleeping.
  
• Increased anxiety or hypervigilance.
  
• Emotional highs and lows.
  
• Withdrawal from family, friends, or activities.
  
• Difficulty managing stress.
  
• Other significant changes in your psychological well-being.
  ​
  

A psychological injury claim may involve a single traumatic event or a cumulative series
of significant occupational stressors. Firefighters also have specific presumptive
coverage provisions under BC's Workers Compensation Act, subject to the applicable
requirements.

Remember, you do not have to navigate this process alone. Contact the Local 18
WorkSafe Committee for any questions or assistance.



Below is a list of recognized presumptive workplace injuries for Firefighters in BC.

​

Disclaimer

​WORKSAFEBC CLAIMS
Where do I start?
If you have experienced a workplace injury or illness, it's important to report it as soon
as possible. This includes physical injuries, occupational illnesses, and psychological
injuries.
You do not need to wait until an injury becomes serious or results in time away from
work before reporting it.
What qualifies as a WorkSafeBC claim?

Physical injuries
Injuries resulting from a work-related incident or activity, such as back injuries, sprains,
strains, fractures, burns, or other physical injuries.

Psychological injuries
Mental health conditions arising from exposure to traumatic workplace events or
significant occupational stressors. These may result from one event or a cumulative
series of events.
​
Occupational illnesses
Illnesses or conditions that develop as a result of workplace exposure or occupational
activities.



​Filing a physical injury and occupational illness claim

Follow these steps when reporting a workplace injury/ illness.

1) Notify your supervisor
Immediately notify your Battalion Chief, Captain, or Lieutenant once you identify an injury.

​If you cannot reach your direct supervisor, you can contact the Incident Safety
Officer (ISO). The ISO Phone Numbe can be obtained by calling any
Vancouver firehall.

2. Complete Form 6A
Complete the WorkSafeBC Form 6A, which is the worker's notice of injury to the
employer.
If you are at a firehall or City of Vancouver workplace:

                  1. Open the FireNet homepage.
                  2. Find the Actions section.
                  3. Select Workplace Injury.
                  4. Locate and complete Form 6A.
​
If you are not at work and cannot access FireNet, Form 6A is available through
the WorkSafeBC website and can be emailed to the Assistant Chief of
Occupational Health &  Safety. You can obtain this email by calling any Vancouver
firehall.

3. Report your injury to WorkSafeBC
If time loss is suspected or medical services will be required the employee is
required to contact WorkSafeBC Teleclaim as soon as possible.

                  WorkSafeBC Teleclaim
            1-888-967-5377
                      Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–6 p.m.

4. Maintain communication
Continue to maintain communication with the employer in accordance with the
Leave – Sickness and Injury SOP.​