WSIB Ontario

What is WSIB?

WSIB (Workplace Safety and Insurance Board) administers Ontario's workers' compensation system. In most construction work, employers must register, report wages, and pay WSIB premiums so workers receive no-fault injury and illness benefits.

WSIB is not optional insurance you shop around for on most Ontario construction payroll. It is a statutory program with registration, classification, and audit rules.

Who must register?

Most Ontario construction businesses with workers, including many subcontractors, must carry WSIB coverage when performing construction work as defined in the legislation. Owner-operators and independent operators may have different rules depending on structure and trade.

If you hire subs, verify their WSIB clearance. Hiring uninsured subs can leave you paying premiums or facing project delays.

Premiums and classifications

WSIB assigns rate groups based on work type. Your premium depends on:

• Reported payroll and headcount
• Classification of the work performed
• Experience and incentive programs

Misclassifying work to get a lower rate creates audit risk. Report payroll accurately and on time.

Clearance certificates

General contractors and owners often require a WSIB clearance certificate before you mobilize or receive payment. Clearance confirms your account is in good standing.

Build clearance checks into your subcontractor onboarding and invoice process so payment is not blocked at the worst time.

WSIB vs private liability insurance

WSIB covers workplace injuries for covered workers. It does not replace:

• Commercial general liability insurance
• Professional liability where applicable
• Surety bonds required on some projects

Carry both where your contracts and trades require them.

On the job

Register before your first worker hits site. Late registration adds cost and compliance headaches.

Request clearance from every sub. Make it a standard pre-job checklist item.

Keep payroll records job-ready. WSIB audits look at classification and reporting, not just totals.

Note

This is general info only. WSIB registration rules depend on business structure, work type, and regulatory updates. Confirm your obligations with WSIB directly or qualified counsel.