WorkSafeBC

Pursuant to Section 82 of the Workers Compensation Act, RSBC 1996, Chapter 492 and amendments thereto (the "Act"), the Panel of Administrators (the "Panel") must approve and superintend the policies and direction of the Workers’ Compensation Board (the "Board), including policies respecting compensation, assessment, rehabilitation and occupational safety and health;

Policy 1.4.5 of the Prevention Division Policy and Procedure Manual provides for a right of appeal to the "Director, Field Operations" with respect to the decision of a regional manager on orders issued by a Board officer, and by resolution of April 23, 1998, this policy was extended to cover appeals against the non-issue of orders;

Reorganizations of the Prevention Division in 1997 and 1999 have resulted in a change in title from "Director, Field Operations" to "Director, Regional Services", and a significant increase in responsibility for that position;

Significant delays have been experienced in dealing with appeals by the Director, Regional Services, and a backlog of outstanding appeals has developed;

A policy decision is required by the Panel of Administrators to authorize additional qualified persons designated by the Vice-President, Prevention Division, to hear appeals;