WCB Updates Psychological Injury Claim Guidelines – What You Need to Know
Big news for workplace mental health! As of May 1, 2025, the Saskatchewan Workers’ Compensation Board (WCB) has rolled out important updates to its policy and procedures. These changes are designed to better support psychological injury claims that fall outside the original “psychological injury presumption.”
What’s Changed?
Previously, for a psychological injury claim to be considered, it generally needed:
- A diagnosis from a licensed psychologist or psychiatrist, and
- Proof of exposure to a single, traumatic work-related event.
The new guidelines now allow for claims under broader circumstances, recognizing a wider range of workplace stressors such as:
- Expanded Diagnosis: A diagnosis can now also come from a qualified social worker with an “APE” designation.
- Broader Stressors: Psychological injuries can now be recognized if they result from substantial work-related stressors, including:
- Harassment or bullying
- Discrimination
- Sexual harassment
- Excessive and prolonged workload issues
What Still Matters: The Strict Criteria
It’s important to remember that claims must still meet strict criteria. This includes providing:
- Objective evidence of the incident or stressors.
- Clear proof of harm.
- Confirmation that the stressor was beyond normal job expectations.
The “but for” test may also be used to determine if the injury would have occurred without the work-related factor.
Good to Know: While a claim is being reviewed, WCB benefits may still be provided. If the injury is found to be not work-related, those costs won’t be charged to the employer.
These updates provide clearer direction for claims that don’t fit the old mold, and they’re a vital step in addressing the evolving understanding of psychological injuries in today’s workplaces.
Service Hospitality continues to monitor these developments, offering vital injury prevention and effective claims management education services for our members.
Relevant Policies (Effective May 1, 2025):
- Section 28.1 – Psychological Injury Presumption
- Section 27 – General Psychological Injury Guidelines
Are you unsure how these changes may affect your organization? Reach out to your Service Hospitality advisor—we’re here to help you navigate these updates and support your workplace mental health strategy.
