FAQ’s about the Worker Advisor Office
What is the Worker Advisor Office?
The Worker Advisor Office provides free confidential services to injured workers and their families who are appealing a decision by the Worker Compensation Board (WCB) of Manitoba.
We offer:
- general information about WCB policies, procedures and the appeal process
- an impartial opinion on WCB decisions
- advice and recommendations on steps to take before appealing a WCB decision
- representation in cases where we believe there is a reasonable argument to dispute a WCB decision.
Is the Worker Advisor Office part of the WCB?
No. We are employees of the Manitoba Government and are independent from the WCB.
Is there a charge to workers for using the Worker Advisor Office services?
No. The Worker Advisor Office provides confidential services at no charge.
When do I contact the Worker Advisor Office for help?
You can contact the Worker Advisor Office when you:
- want information on WCB processes, legislation or policies
- have a specific question about your WCB file or a decision that has been made on your claim
- disagree with a WCB decision and want an impartial opinion on whether WCB legislation and policies have been properly applied
- want help in making an appeal.
What if English is not my first language?
You can have a friend or family member with you during meetings at the Worker Advisor Office, or we can provide a translation service to communicate with you over the phone.
What happens when I contact the Worker Advisor Office for help?
We will listen to your concerns and answer your questions. You should also be prepared for us to ask questions about your claim. For instance, if a decision has been made by the WCB, we will need to know if you received the decision in writing, the reasons the WCB gave for the decision, and why you disagree with it.
If we are unable to answer your question we will try to help you find the answer.
Does the Worker Advisor Office help every worker who contacts them?
Yes. we will provide advice and assistance to everyone who contacts our office; however the help that workers receive will depend on the details of their individual case. In all cases, we will ensure that we discuss the options available to you. Remember, this is your appeal and you must be comfortable with the steps that are taken. Our staff can guide you through the WCB’s processes and help you decide what to do.
When won't the Worker Advisor Office represent me in an appeal?
We will not represent a worker in an appeal when:
- a decision has already been made on the issue by the Appeal Commission
- the evidence on file does not support the argument you wish to make, and no other evidence is available
- you have a lawyer, an advocate or some other person actively working on your file
- we believe the WCB has not made an error in applying the legislation and/or policies
- the WCB’s decision appears reasonable based on the evidence.
If the Worker Advisor Office is not representing me can I still appeal the WCB decision?
Yes, if we determine that we cannot represent you, it has no effect on your right to appeal a WCB decision. We can still provide advice and assistance with regards to your file. This can include answering questions about WCB legislation or policies, reviewing your appeal letter, or helping you learn about and prepare for an Appeal Commission hearing.
Does the Worker Advisor office help both union and non-unionized workers?
Yes. We will assist any worker who disagrees with a WCB decision, but will not represent a worker who has someone else dealing with the WCB on their behalf.
Contact the Worker Advisor Office
Telephone: 204-945-5787 or
Toll free at 1-800-282-8069 (ask for the Worker Advisor Office at ext. 5787)
Fax: 204-948-2020
E-mail: wao@gov.mb.ca
This is a general overview and the information used is subject to change. For detailed information, please refer to current legislation including The Workers Compensation Act.
