Unveiling Language Barriers: Exploring Challenges Faced by Punjabi Clients in Accessing Workers' Compensation Services within WorkSafeBC


Manjot Mangat, University of British Columbia

Racial inequality remains a pervasive issue within the workplace, manifesting prominently in the hurdles confronted by individuals from marginalized communities seeking access to workers compensation services. WorkSafeBC (WSBC), responsible for administering workers compensation in British Columbia, plays a crucial role in ensuring timely and appropriate support for injured workers. However, members of the Punjabi community, a significant segment of BCs population and workforce, grapple with formidable language barriers when seeking assistance from WSBC. These barriers extend beyond mere communication challenges, impacting the ability to navigate the compensation process effectively, leading to delayed or inadequate medical care, and perpetuating disparities within the workplace. Additionally, the linguistic hurdles render Punjabi workers vulnerable to exploitation, impeding their capacity to advocate for rights or negotiate fair settlements. This study is designed to delve into the racial inequality within WSBC, focusing specifically on the language barriers faced by Punjabi clients. The threefold objectives encompass identifying and analyzing the extent and nature of language barriers within the WSBC system for Punjabi clients, evaluating the availability and effectiveness of interpretation services provided by WSBC, and proposing strategies to address language barriers and promote equitable services. Through these objectives, the study aims to shed light on the challenges experienced by the Punjabi community, contributing to the creation of a more inclusive and equitable environment within WSBC. The research question driving this study centers on the challenges confronted by Punjabi clients in accessing WSBC compensation services in BC. Language barriers are identified as a critical impediment affecting their ability to navigate the workers compensation system, comprehend policies and procedures, and submit claims in a timely manner. The study also endeavors to assess the availability and effectiveness of WSBCs interpretation services for Punjabi clients, aiming to enhance communication and understanding between Punjabi-speaking individuals and service providers within WSBC. A comprehensive literature review illuminates existing research on the impact of language barriers on access to vocational rehabilitation services and workers compensation. However, these studies fall short in addressing the specific challenges faced by the Punjabi community in BC. To address this gap, the research employs a qualitative methodology, utilizing semi-structured interviews with Punjabi clients of WSBC in the Lower Mainland region. Convenience sampling is employed to ensure diverse perspectives, covering age, gender, occupation, and injury type. The interviews, conducted in Punjabi, explore participants experiences with language barriers, understanding of policies and procedures, communication difficulties, and the impact of language barriers on compensation claims. Moreover, thematic analysis is applied to identify patterns and challenges, allowing for a comprehensive exploration of the research objectives. In essence, this research aims to contribute to the ongoing discourse on racial inequality within workers compensation systems. By spotlighting the unique challenges faced by the Punjabi community in accessing WSBC services and proposing strategies to address language barriers, the study aspires to foster a more inclusive and equitable environment within WSBC. Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that all clients, regardless of linguistic background, can effectively navigate the compensation system and access their rights.

This paper will be presented at the following session: