This 6 day course begins by exploring the impact of occupational disease on society and workplaces,
the lessons that have been learned and current developments in occupational disease claims.
Participants will learn both the legal test and medical standards for causation, how legal principles apply
in an appeal and the significance of apportionment. The field of epidemiology is examined, including the
different types of studies, how data is analyzed and what to look for when assessing a study. Toxicology
and other evidence and how they are gathered and what weight is put on them are discussed as well as
how to prepare to examine an expert witness. The Industrial Disease Panel is discussed and the
adjudication process is explained with information on how to best ensure a successful adjudication.
To further understand this complex subject, a number of occupational diseases are studied with respect
to their risk factors, diagnostic testing and how to argue causal links using the WSIA, policies and WSIAT
decisions. Survivor benefits provided by the WSIB are also presented.