Bill 103: Supporting Mine Rescue Workers Act

This bill affects mining operations in Nova Scotia that maintain or participate in mine rescue teams — primarily underground and surface mines in areas like Cape Breton and other parts of the province. If you run a mine or are part of a mining company that employs or trains mine rescue workers, your workers' compensation obligations and potential claim costs could increase as PTSD claims from rescue personnel are now automatically accepted without requiring proof of work-relatedness. For smaller mining operations with a handful of designated rescue workers, even a single accepted claim could have a noticeable impact on your WCB experience rating and premiums. Larger mining employers with bigger rescue crews should review their workplace mental health supports and claims management practices in light of this expanded coverage.