Manitoba employers can reduce WCB assessment rates by 10 per cent
The Workers Compensation Board of Manitoba (WCB) announced its Construction Health and Safety Incentive Program has been made permanent following a three year evaluation process.
The pilot program started in 2007 and offered a five per cent reduction in WCB assessment rates for construction firms that earned a certificate of recognition (COR) and met certain other criteria. Going forward, the program will be enhanced by doubling the first year discount to 10 per cent.
The loss-time injury rate in the construction industry has dropped from 8.8 per 100 full-time equivalent workers in 2007 to 6.9 per 100 full-time equivalent workers in 2009. The number of COR certified companies has grown from approximately 166 companies in 2006 to 440 as of Jan. 1, 2011.
"Safety programs are an effective way to reduce workplace injuries," said Doug Sexsmith, president and CEO of WCB. "COR certified companies were found to have lower injury rates, reduced time loss injury costs and shorter claim durations than non-COR certified companies. As a result, they also paid lower assessment rates."
To obtain COR accreditation, an employer must undergo a safety training program, develop a company safety manual, develop and implement a health and safety program and pass an independent safety audit.
Over 50 per cent of the workers in Manitoba’s construction industry work for a COR certified company.
