The Commission de la santé et la sécurité du travail (hereinafter referred to as “the CSST”) can impose a suspension or reduction of your indemnities even though it is supposed to award you the benefits provided by the Act respecting industrial accidents and occupational diseases (hereinafter referred to as “the Act”). Once your file is opened, a CSST adjudicator is assigned and is the one that will be rendering decisions related to your situation. It is important to note that the adjudicator acts on the behalf of the CSST, which explains the importance of actively cooperating with the latter at every step of the process.

With that in mind, it is important to remember that the adjudicators can resort to the power that they have under the Act of suspending or reducing the payment of an indemnity in specific cases. For instance, the adjudicators can take such a decision if you provide inaccurate information, refuse or neglect to produce the information the CSST requires or refuse to give the necessary authorization for obtaining such information. Also, according to the same section of the Act mentioned earlier, the reduction or suspension of the payment of an indemnity can take place if you neglect or refuse to undergo a medical examination or a medical treatment considered necessary in your interest, to avail yourself of the rehabilitation measures prescribed in your personal rehabilitation program or to perform the work temporarily assigned to you. Finally, this sanction can be imposed by the CSST if you do anything that prevents or delays a cure or if you neglect or refuse to inform your employer about the consolidation date determined by your physician.

However, since these situations are subject to possible exceptions and that the conduct of the worker can often be justified, it is advisable to contact your adjudicator in order to explain the circumstances of the particular event. For instance, if you are unable to attend an appointment deemed necessary for the progression of your file, take the time to inform your agent. Acting in such a manner might help you prevent having your indemnity reduced or suspended.