Code of Conduct

PART 3: Guiding Principles

21.  These principles guide the behaviour and decisions of members and employees.

22.  The actions and decisions of members and employees are made pursuant to the Workers' Compensation Act . The Appeals Commission depends on its members to ensure that its decisions are timely, fair and just, and in accordance with the Workers' Compensation Act and other applicable legislation and policy.

23.  Members and employees shall conduct themselves so that public confidence in the integrity, objectivity and independence of the Appeals Commission as a quasi-judicial adjudicative tribunal, is maintained and enhanced.

24.  Members and employees have a responsibility to uphold the Appeals Commission's jurisdiction and act according to the powers given to them by the Workers' Compensation Act .

25.  Members and employees have a responsibility to act in good faith and to place the interests of the Appeals Commission above their own private interests.

26.  When a member or employee, as an individual, is subject to more than one code of conduct, the member or employee must consider the expectations in all. Members and employees understand that this Code is not intended to conflict with other Codes of Conduct, and will discuss any potential conflicts with their Supervisor or the Code Administrator.

i)  The Code applies to all members and employees unless a specific exemption is granted by the Code Administrator. Nothing in this Code is meant to apply to allegations of bias or conflicts of interest raised with respect to appeals before the Appeals Commission. The Appeals Commission will adhere to the Protocol for Determining Bias Issues when those issues arise in the context of the hearing of an appeal.

ii)  Members and employees know that when they become aware of a real or apparent conflict of interest, they must at the first opportunity, disclose this conflict to their Supervisor or the Code Administrator.

iii)  Members and employees understand that disclosure itself does not remove a conflict of interest.

iv)  Members and employees encourage their colleagues to act fairly and ethically, and know that they are able to raise concerns about a suspected breach by another to their Supervisor or the Code Administrator without fear of reprisal.

v)  Members and employees know that breaches of this Code may result in disciplinary action, up to and including removal of the member or termination of the employee.

vi)  Members and employees know that if they have any questions about the Code, or are not sure how to apply these principles, they should consult with their Supervisor or the Code Administrator.

vii)  Each member and employee confirms, upon commencement of employment (including appointment and re-appointment by order-in-council), their understanding of, and commitment to, the Code's expectations.

 

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