Today we celebrate a milestone in firefighter health and safety. The passing of new legislation that reduces the required time worked for many skin cancers from 15, down to 10 years.   

Greg Horton, President of the Ontario Professional Fire Fighters Association, commented "Due to occupational exposure, firefighters regularly develop serious skin cancers long before they reach 15 years of service.  Under the previous legislation, they were not covered by workers compensation, putting them and their families in very difficult, costly situations. 

Today we celebrate the passing of legislation that reduces the required duration of service for skin cancers, allowing firefighters to be covered after 10 years of service, instead of 15. On behalf of the Ontario Professional Fire Fighters Association, I would like to thank Premier Ford and the Ontario Government for their diligent work protecting professional firefighters – those who choose to safeguard Ontarians 24/7/365.”  

Why is this legislation important?  

• Unlike other workers, firefighters cannot refuse work in dangerous and hazardous conditions where they are exposed toxic carcinogens. 

• Firefighters are 2-3 times more likely to develop melanoma than non-firefighters due to prolonged exposure to UV radiation, toxic chemicals, and heat. 

• Shortening the latency period allows firefighters who develop skin cancers to access life-saving benefits and compensation more quickly. 

• Firefighters die of cancer at a rate 2 to 4 times higher than the general population. 

This issue was on the OPFFA’s list to improve in 2024 and we’ve accomplished our goal! Thank you to the Government, and especially to our hard-working locals for continuing to advocate for change – your work has and continues to make a difference.