By Dori Modney (@Dori_Modney on Twitter)

Cancer compensation benefits expanded for Alberta firefighters

Jan 19, 2018 | 1:02 PM

CALGARY –  Alberta firefighters facing heightened cancer risks on the job, will soon have expanded benefits

There are currently more than 14,000 full-time, part-time, casual and volunteer firefighters in the province.  Of that number, about 0 per cent are volunteers, and eight per cent are women.

The Firefighters’ Primary Site Cancer Regulation came into effect in 2003 and is part of the Workers` Compensation Act.  It states that firefighters suffering from a primary site cancer, as specified in the regulation, that the cancer is presumed to be an occupational disease, and therefore eligible for Workers’ Compensation Board (WCB) benefits.

The province is moving to ensure regulatory amendments, which will reduce the minimum exposure period for testicular cancer from 20 to 10 years. As well, female-specific cancer types, such as ovarian and cervical cancer, will have a minimum exposure period at 10 years.  The expiry date of the regulation will also be removed.

A news release outlines that the province`s move will ensure firefighters who contract ovarian and cervical cancer will receive workers’ compensation benefits and supports, making Alberta the leader in Canada.    

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Craig Macdonald, President of the Alberta Firefighters Association, supports the changes.

“The Alberta Fire Fighters Association applauds the Government of Alberta for expanding cancer protections for Alberta firefighters. Firefighters are six times more likely to be diagnosed with cancer, and adding female reproductive cancers not only strengthens the diversity of our profession, it makes Alberta a leader in the fire service.”

According to Macdonald, the biggest danger facing modern firefighters is long-term effects of exposure to burning of chemicals and plastics.