Certificate gives safe construction firms reduction in workers' compensation rates
Manitoba's Health and Safety Incentive Program is now permanent.
The program, which started in 2007, offers a five per cent reduction in Workers Compensation Board (WCB) assessment rates for construction firms that earn a Certificate of Recognition (COR).
In addition to making the program permanent, it will also be enhanced by doubling the first year discount for firms to 10 per cent, according to the Workers Compensation Board of Manitoba.
To obtain the certificate, 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. Certification is administered by the Manitoba Heavy Construction Association Work Safely Program and the Construction Safety Association of Manitoba.
“The WCB’s COR incentive program acknowledges construction firms who make keeping workers safe a top priority at all times,” said Manitoba Heavy Construction Association president Chris Lorenc. “Programs such as this that motivate and encourage companies to participate in workplace safety are being welcomed by the industry."
Since the program was introduced in 2007, the time loss 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 certified companies has grown from about 166 companies in 2006 to 440 as of Jan. 1, 2011, according to Manitoba's WCB.
"Safety programs are an effective way to reduce workplace injuries," said WCB president and CEO Doug Sexsmith. "Certification works. 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."
More than 50 per cent of the workers in Manitoba’s construction industry work for a COR certified company. The initiative is self-funded by all construction employers in Manitoba and there is no additional cost to employers in other industries, according to the WCB.
“We're glad that the COR incentive program has been made permanent, because workplace injuries in the construction sector will continue to decrease as more firms take part and remain committed to programs like this,” said Winnipeg Construction Association executive vice-president Ron Hambley. “We are committed to our safety programs and training because they help keep workers safe."
