[Duruss]

Howdy all,

I need the often insightful thoughts of CP. I am going to have to leave some details out. About a month ago I was hurt at work, nothing very serious, but enough that it needed treatment and I had to do modified duties at work The injury was reported to WCB.

On November 10, I went to a follow appointment at the clinic my employer told me I had to go to. At the appointment the Doctor put me on another two weeks of light duty, I then turned in the report to my employer as required when I got back at 1:30(we work from 7:00-3:30). The next day, November 11, I was called into management at 9:30 where I was told I was being terminated; The reason they cited was a lack of skills, I absolutely do not believe that my skillset was deficient.

I took the news graciously and thanked them for the opportunity, got my gear and left. The next day I called WCB to find out what would happen to my claim and what I should do. I was still recovering and as such I could not see a new employer wanting me, I couldn't not disclose my injury as I believe that would consitute falsifying my abilities which is grounds for immediate termination with cause. I also couldn't risk having to make another WCB claim for the same injury.

WCB asked me lots of questions and then said they would get back to me, I hadn't done this before so I had no idea what was going on. When they did they asked me about my job duties and if I would be willing to go back to work with my employer if my employer would take me. I told them that I was unsure as I no longer trusted them, they had terminated me while I was injured, less than a day after learning I needed to continue doing light duty, this also happened only three days away from the end of my probation and activation of benefits.

And so this morning I get a call from my employer asking if I would like to come back. I would have to start my probation over again, I would also have to sign a modified work agreement that they are making. Plus rather than being with my former colleagues I would have to go to a different location that I am unfamiliar with. I have accepted, but I am beginning to think it unwise.

I know that if I refuse my WCB claim will be closed, I am fine with this since I have everything I need to continue recovery at home. My injury has in fact been healing faster since being terminated as I am not using it so much. I am also aware that my employer is being forced to rehire me until I am cleared for regular duties at which time they will likely terminate me again as this is a major loss of face for then. On Monday I have an appointment with some specialists that WCB has referred me to.

My question is should I bother, I am being isolated from my former colleagues, it is likely to be a hostile environment, and last only two weeks to a month. Now I do need about 80 more hours to qualify for EI, but that could all be rendered moot by what is put on my ROE. I also would be working in an location that has poor air quality and I was already bothered by the first locations air which had fewer welders. As such I see little value in the potential mental and physical toll that returning could take on me.