SARS Announcement Due to the outbreak of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), many of our stakeholders have questions about coverage and benefits and services under the Workplace Safety and Insurance Act (the Act). The Act provides compensation for “personal injury arising out of and in the course of employment” (section 13(1)). The Act also provides compensation where “a worker suffers from and is impaired by an occupational disease that occurs due to the nature of one or more employments in which the worker was engaged” (section 15(1)). Workers with symptoms of SARS who were infected in the course of their employment may be entitled to the usual benefits and services available under the Act. As in all disease claims, their entitlement is decided on a case by case basis. The Act does not provide coverage for workers who are symptom free, even when quarantined or sent home on a precautionary basis. However, such workers may be entitled to benefits and services if they develop symptoms or an illness compatible with their occupational exposure. Enquiries concerning claims issues related to SARS should be directed to the Occupational Disease and Survivor Benefits Program (ODSBP). See an ODSBP contact list. Questions regarding unpaid lost time can be forwarded to Human Resources Development Canada (HRDC) at www.hrdc-drhc.gc.ca or call HRDC employment Insurance Infoline at 1-800-206-7218. If you think you’ve been exposed to SARS please call Telehealth Ontario (Symptoms) at 1-866-797-0000. If you require more health information about SARS please refer to the Ministry of Health Web site at www.health.gov.on.ca or call the Ministry of Health SARS INFOline at 1-888-668-4636. You can also consult the Ministry of Labour's Web for more details on workplace issues related to SARS.