Contrary to common belief, the oil & gas sector isn’t at the top of Canada’s most hazardous professions. Data from Avetta, derived from 2017-2019, positions the energy sector 10th on this list. While this positioning highlights the industry’s safety efforts, the truth remains that occupational accidents occur, posing significant workers’ compensation costs to employers.
For numerous businesses, occupational injuries are an unfortunate part of operations, not only due to the disruption they cause but also for the financial repercussions. Beyond the operational halts due to workplace incidents, every WCB claim can adversely impact a firm’s WCB premium rate.
Indeed, workers’ compensation premiums, a significant operational cost, can strain a company’s finances or worsen existing financial challenges. But there are proactive strategies employers can employ to reduce the burden of WCB premiums on their financial health. Foremost among these is effectively managing claims costs.
Efficient claims cost management spans from pre-accident protocols to post-incident activities. Costs start accruing the moment an incident takes place, making immediate action paramount. Delays, whether in reporting, medical attention, referrals, workplace hazard mitigation, or return-to-work plans, can be financially draining. Companies must be ready to respond swiftly.
Tips for Employers
Pre-incident:
- Ensure written, current company policies, including Health and Safety Manuals, Drug and Alcohol Protocols, and Accident Reporting Procedures.
- Develop and regularly update Physical Demands Analysis (PDA) profiles for all company roles.
- Establish a Modified Work Program (MWP) and/or Return to Work (RTW) blueprint. This should address training opportunities, remote work options, and phased-in roles and duties.
- Consolidate essential forms, digitally or in print, covering topics like accident reports and work restrictions.
- Engage employees in the creation of PDA’s and MWP/RTW strategies, fostering a culture of respect and inclusion.
- Regularly remind all employees, even seasonal ones, about accident reporting protocols.
- Define what constitutes ‘undue hardship’ when reintegrating an injured employee, in light of recent legislation.
Post-Incident:
- Immediately implement accident reporting measures.
- Clearly define expectations for injured employees, such as seeking timely medical care and consistent communication with employers.
- Employers should expediently share all relevant data with the WCB and maintain a dialogue with the injured employee about their recovery.
- Launch a MWP and/or RTW strategy when suitable, keeping potential long-term adjustments in mind.
- Thoroughly analyze incidents to determine causality, lessons, and preventive measures.
- Reevaluate MWP and RTW strategies post-incidents to ascertain effectiveness and areas of improvement.
- Engage staff in safety dialogues, absorbing their feedback, and updating company protocols accordingly.
