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Merchant Seamen
About the Plan

The Merchant Seamen Compensation Act ensures that certain merchant seamen injured in work-related accidents can receive health benefits and medical compensation. The Act can also provide financial assistance for surviving dependants if a work-related injury leads to death.

Whether the accident occurs in Canada or abroad, a seaman may receive compensation for expenses such as medical, surgical and dental aids, hospital stays and nursing services. If the workplace injury or illness leads to a permanent disability, the seamen could be entitled to disability payments based on a percentage of previous wages. In the case of death, the plan covers burial costs as well as ongoing payments to children, spouses or other dependants.

This Act applies only to those who aren’t already covered by the Government Employees’ Compensation Act or any other provincial or territorial workers’ compensation act. It is administered by the Merchant Seamen Compensation Board, which reports to the federal Minister of Labour. The Board adjudicates claims but employers are ultimately responsible for paying all costs and administrative fees.

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Date Modified:

2012-05-01