Toronto, December 10, 2018 – The Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) announced today that a Dedicated Review Team will re-examine more than 300 claims filed by rubber workers in the Kitchener Waterloo area since 2002 that had not previously been allowed.
"I am very deeply concerned by recent reports about the very serious health issues facing people who worked in the rubber industry in our community," said Elizabeth Witmer, WSIB Chair. "I have asked for a review to ensure we are applying the latest science and evidence to make decisions about these claims."
The review, will look at both cancer and non-cancer related claims and will be focused on:
- Some types of cancer where updated scientific research supports linkages between specific levels of chemical exposures and specific illnesses.
- Claims where a greater understanding of the intensity of exposure and/or number of agents exposed to, may impact the decision.
Between 2002 and 2017, claims were received from people who worked in the rubber industry in the Kitchener Waterloo area at several companies for a variety of illnesses, including various types of cancer.
If someone has questions about a previously denied claim, they should contact the WSIB at 1-800-387-0750. In addition, anyone who thinks they may have a work-related illness but has not yet filed a claim can contact the WSIB for more information or visit the website wsib.on.ca.
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For further information, please contact:
WSIB media relations
media@wsib.on.ca
416-344-4202