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Sign language services and WorkSafeBC
Pursuant to section 21 of the Workers Compensation Act, WorkSafeBC introduced a new sign language services fee schedule on June 1, 2009.
WorkSafeBC does not currently have a formal agreement with sign language service providers but sign language service providers may be authorized to render services. When a worker in B.C. suffers a workplace accident, WorkSafeBC pays the cost of appropriate services.
All sign language service providers who provide services to injured workers are deemed to have accepted the terms of the Sign Language Services Fee Schedule (PDF 59kb). Sign language service providers not wishing to accept these terms should not provide services to injured workers.
Sign language service providers must be a member and in good standing with the Association of Visual Language Interpreters of Canada (AVLIC) and be a graduate from a recognized sign language interpretation program in order to provide services to injured workers.
Approval process
A WorkSafeBC officer must approve the request for sign language services.
Assignment of interpreters
For assignments under two hours: one interpreter.
For assignments in excess of two hours or assignments of an extremely demanding nature: two interpreters (minimum).
Cancelled appointments
Two business days notice is required before the time and date of scheduling, otherwise WorkSafeBC will be billed in full.
More than 48 hours notice: no charge to WorkSafeBC.
For cancellation of all day bookings: WorkSafeBC will be charged for full day.
Billing and fee schedule
To bill WorkSafeBC for your services, include only those fee items outlined in the sign language services fee schedule. All billing must quote the appropriate fee item code and be submitted using the Generic Invoice – Medical and Health Care (PDF 116kb) within 90 days of providing service.
Fee Code |
Service Name |
Fees |
Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1100524 | Sign language services | $55.00/hr | An hourly rate will be charged from the beginning of the scheduled start time to the end of the interpretation time unless the interpreter is late. |
| 1100525 | Mileage | $0.51/km | Mileage must be pre-authorized by a WorkSafeBC officer. Mileage can only be charged for travel greater than 30 km. Mileage willl be billed per kilometre travelled. |
| 1100526 | Travel expenses | Pre-approved $ amount | The service provider will be reimbursed for expenses incurred in the fulfillment of its obligation provided they have received prior approval from WorkSafeBC and are supported by proper receipts. Travel expenses are payable for travel greater than 30 kms with WorkSafeBC officer approval. |
GST and PST exempt
Services purchased are for the use of, and are purchased by, WorkSafeBC and are therefore not subject to the Goods and Services Tax. Sign language services are PST not applicable.Inquiries
Please call Health Care Services at 604 232-7787 or toll-free 1 866 244-6404 for further information.