Esophageal cancer added to list of cancers covered for Saskatchewan firefighters

<p>REGINA – The Saskatchewan government is adding esophageal cancer to the list of cancers considered occupational diseases for the province’s full-time, professional firefighters.</p> <p>Workplace Safety Minister Don Morgan says the amendment to the Workers’ Compensation Act signals the government’s intent to cover risks posed by toxins, carcinogens and cancer-causing agents in the daily work of firefighters.</p> <p>There will be a minimum employment requirement period.</p> <p>No incremental costs to the Workers Compensation Board are expected with this legislation, since esophageal cancer claims are already accepted by the board if there is sufficient evidence establishing a causal link to the work performed.</p> <p>There are close to 700 full-time, professional fire fighters in Saskatchewan.</p>