Ontario to extend workers’ compensation in construction

TORONTO

Under new legislation, WSIB coverage is mandatory for independent operators and some other individuals carrying on business in the construction industry, beginning in 2013.

The pre-registration provisions of the Workplace Safety and Insurance Amendment Act, 2008 (Bill 119), became effective Jan. 1, 2012.

The remainder of the Act which extends mandatory workers’ compensation coverage to independent operators, sole proprietors, some partners in a partnership and some executive officers who work in the construction industry will come into effect on Jan. 1, 2013.

The legislation provides a one year period from Jan. 1, 2012 to Dec. 31, 2012 to allow these individuals to voluntarily pre-register with the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) before the requirements relating to mandatory coverage come into force.

During this one-year pre-registration period, premiums will not be charged because the requirement to pay premiums will not be in force until Jan. 1, 2013, which is also when coverage begins.

Starting in January 2012 the WSIB will launch a year-long education campaign to make sure that everyone impacted by mandatory coverage in the construction industry knows about the changes and what they will mean.

The WSIB has already rolled out a suite of eServices, which it says makes it easier for people operating in the construction industry to register and do business with WSIB.

In exchange for their tax deductible premiums, everyone covered by WSIB insurance has access to WSIB programs and services and the knowledge that they won’t have to go without income if they get hurt on the job.

There is an exemption for home renovators who are contracted directly with the person occupying the residence and work exclusively in home renovation.

Businesses are also allowed to select one executive officer or partner to apply for an exemption from coverage. This must be an individual who does not perform any construction work on any building site (including on-site supervision).

For more information on coverage in the construction industry and how to register, visit www.wsib.on.ca

DCN NEWS SERVICES