IAFF members in British Columbia gain presumptive coverage for eight cancers
Iain Hoey
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Cancer coverage expands in British Columbia
British Columbia has added eight cancers to its presumptive regime for fire fighters, bringing the total to 26 covered cancers.
The International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) said the regulatory change was announced on March 3 by B.C. Premier David Eby and Labour Minister Jennifer Whiteside.
Five respiratory cancers are now included: tracheal and bronchial cancers.
Laryngeal cancer, nasal cancer and pharyngeal cancer are also covered.
Skin cancer and soft tissue sarcoma have been added.
Mesothelioma has also been included, described in the source material as a cancer associated with asbestos exposure.
Changes to eligibility and claims process
The regulation reduces the required years of service to qualify for esophageal cancer coverage from 20 to 15.
The source material states that this change reflects a precedent set by the Ontario Professional Fire Fighters Association in 2023.
The announcement was made before delegates attending the British Columbia Professional Fire Fighters Association (BCPFFA) annual Robert E. Hall Legislative Conference in Victoria.
BCPFFA President Todd Schierling said: “The BCPFFA has been a tireless advocate for these changes, and this is the strongest set of protections in the country,
“It means our members won’t be left fighting the system at the same time they’re fighting cancer.”
Schierling added: “This comprehensive approach reinforces the provincial government’s unwavering commitment to those who protect the public, ensuring they return home healthy at the end of their service.”
IAFF reaction and background on presumptive laws
IAFF General President Edward Kelly said: “Cancer remains the leading cause of line-of-duty deaths in the fire service,
“Strong presumptive laws are an important part of confronting that reality across Canada.”
Eby stated: “Fire fighters so often face hazardous situations.
“We’re making sure they have support when they need it most.”
The source material states that occupational cancer claims the lives of more than 60 Canadian IAFF members each year, including 84 IAFF members in British Columbia over the past 10 years.
Presumptive cancer coverage streamlines the workers’ compensation process by reversing the burden of proof so fire fighters and their families can access support and compensation.
Presumptive legislation for fire fighters was first enacted in Manitoba in 2002 and is now in place in every province and territory in Canada.
British Columbia introduced its first presumptive legislation in 2005 with eight forms of cancer and has updated the regime several times.
Coverage also extends to heart injury and operational stress injury.
Sixth District Vice President Mike Carter said: “This advance will ensure that more fire fighters who get job-related cancers, and their families, get the support and compensation they deserve.”