Mining-Related Lower Back Injuries and the Compensation Process: An Injured Worker’s Journey

Abstract

Background: In Ontario, when an occupational injury occurs in the mining industry, there is often a need to interact with the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB). During this process, miners experience economic, social, and mental health–related issues that can affect their overall well-being. This study aimed to determine the impact of a lower back injury and the WSIB claim process experience expressed by some male, underground miners in Sudbury, Ontario, Canada. Methods: A qualitative descriptive study design that utilized in-depth, individual qualitative interviews was conducted. Twelve male participants (underground miners) were interviewed in Sudbury, Ontario. Interviews were transcribed and thematically analyzed. Findings: The results emphasized the need for improved communication, the necessity for resources to be allocated to enhance public discussion about injury prevention, the social and economic burden that miners and their families face, and the power imbalances between injured miners and the companies that were meant to support them. Conclusion/Application to Practice: The findings indicate that several areas require improvement for an injured miner who submits a WSIB claim. Ideally, participants wanted an improved and streamlined process for reporting an injury and for WSIB claim management. These findings suggest that occupational health practices that foster a safe and healthy work environment in the mining industry must be promoted, which will help to guide future policies that enhance support for an injured worker and the WSIB claim process.