September 17th, 2010

Aside from receiving more in depth training on an assortment of things, I had the opportunity to fill out my first claim with WCB this week. I had also worked on a biannual project with one of my coworkers, and had sat in on my first Return to Work Plan meeting with one of the employees, my supervisor, a medical adjudicator, and the union. During the meeting, we discussed the job demands of the employer’s job and the possibility of putting him on modified duties due to his injuries. I had the opportunity to follow the medical adjudicator’s tour as we observed and analyzed the employee’s injuries and his workspace. This not only allowed me to explore the details of specific job requirements, it had also introduced me to the dynamics in the parties that were involved when dealing with an employee that required special attention. Another opportunity that I was involved with was being assigned with the task of taking minutes for the Occupational Health and Safety Meeting. Teck places a serious importance with safety as safety topics and concerns are always encouraged to be highlighted and discussed all the time. This practice has influenced me to take the topic of safety more seriously as I have become more aware and cautious of the potential hazards around me. It is really all about using your common sense and being aware of your surroundings. The highlight of my week, however, has definitely been my very first termination! I was given the opportunity to write my very first termination and discipline letter. It was very exciting for me as I had finally gotten the opportunity to exercise some power. =)