Workers Comp Nixes Employer’s Claim for Cost Relief for Firefighter’s PTSD

The Alberta WCB awarded a firefighter benefits for post-traumatic stress disorder suffered as a result of witnessing his friend and co-worker get killed on the job. The employer conceded that the firefighter was exposed to traumatic events at work but took issue with the finding that PTSD was an aggravation of his pre-existing alcohol use and major depressive disorders. But the Appeal Commission ruled that the medical evidence supported the finding of aggravation and denied the employer cost relief [Decision No.: 2021-0355, 2021 CanLII 82707 (AB WCAC), September 2, 2021].