What is Policy?

The term policy is broad and can mean different things in different environments.  At the WCB, the term “policy” refers to program policies included in the Workers’ Compensation Board’s Policy Manual.  Program policies include topics such as entitlement, short and long term benefits, and assessments.  These policies are formal statements of the Board of Directors’ position on a given issue and, along with the Workers’ Compensation Act (the Act) and regulations, establish the framework for determining coverage and benefits.  Generally, program policies are used to:

• Define discretionary authority granted under the legislation and/or regulations;
• To clarify a legislated or regulatory requirement; and
• To provide direction and clarification to support consistent decision-making.  

Policies approved by the Board of Directors are binding on the WCB.  They are also binding on the Workers’ Compensation Appeals Tribunal (WCAT), unless WCAT finds a policy to be inconsistent with the Act.  This means that they become part of the legal framework and have the force of law.    

WCB Policy Manual

Workers’ Compensation Act of Nova Scotia