LAWS & ANNOUNCEMENTS

Health & Safety

Jan 5: The WSCC issued a new advisory reminding employers that slips,

trips, and falls continue to be a major source of workplace injuries, especially in the winter. Occupations at high risk include workers in manufacturing, retail, construction, and government. Common injuries include sprains, strains, and bruises, as well as traumatic injuries like broken bones.

Drugs & Alcohol

Jan 19: The GNWT launched a new online survey inviting residents to share their perspectives on the territory’s mental wellness and addictions recovery services, including the effectiveness of the 811 line, and ideas for improving them. Deadline to comment: April 24, 2026.

Action Point: Drug and alcohol addictions are recognized as disabilities that employers must accommodate but only to the point of undue hardship. Find out how far employers must go to accommodate an employee’s drug addiction.

Workers’ Compensation

Feb 28: February 28 is the final day for employers in the Northwest Territories to submit their 2026 workers’ compensation Annual Payroll Report to the WSCC. You should receive a mailed package from the agency well in advance of the deadline. Contact your assessment representative immediately if you haven’t received the APR package.

Action Point: Look up the 2026 workers’ compensation premium rates in each part of Canada.

CASES

There are no cases to mention this month.