Employers can earn double the rebates
The Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) in Ontario is extending the bonus scheme for eligible small employers through 2023.
In June, the agency announced that it will provide a bonus that will double the rebates eligible businesses can earn for each topic they complete in the WSIB’s Health and Safety Excellence program. Businesses can also receive $1,000 towards their health and safety plan in both 2022 and 2023.
Read more: WSIB doubles rebates for small businesses enrolled in safety program
“Joining our Health and Safety Excellence program and receiving the added benefits is a no-brainer for many smaller businesses,” said Jeffery Lang, president and CEO of the WSIB. “We know smaller businesses are still recovering from the pandemic, so it's a crucial time for us to double up on our support and incentives. Every business that invests in health and safety means fewer injuries in the long run.
The Health and Safety Excellence program connects Ontario businesses with approved providers in their industry or community who help design a plan based on 36 available health and safety topics.
For each topic completed, businesses can earn a rebate on their WSIB premiums.
Read more: WSIB now accepting submissions for small business health and safety awards
Since its inception in 2020, the program has distributed over $25 million in rebates, according to the agency.
Smaller business enrollment in the Health and Safety Excellence program has increased by 60 per cent since the additional benefits were first announced in June 2022, said WSIB.
“The WSIB’s Health and Safety Excellence program reinforces that improving safety in the workplace is not just good practice, it’s good for business,” said Rocco Rossi, president and CEO, Ontario Chamber of Commerce.
Read more: Advocacy group demands WSIB stop 'financial handouts' to employers
“We’re pleased that the WSIB is continuing to offer double rebates into 2023 as it will incentivize many of our smaller business members to continue to invest in their workplace safety and improve their safety culture while saving money on premiums.”
Previously, the Ontario Network of Injured Workers’ Group (ONIWG) demanded that the WSIB stop giving “unprecedented financial handouts.” This was after WSIB announced the programs in June.
