Workers Compensation Board of Manitoba

Summary

The workers compensation system is an injury and disability insurance system for employers and workers. Employers, who pay for the system, are not liable for the workplace injuries or diseases sustained by their workers. In turn, workers injured in the course of employment are automatically eligible for compensation regardless of fault.

In Canada, workers compensation is a system of social insurance. Coverage is compulsory for most firms who employ workers, even on a casual basis. Every worker must be covered, except for the company's sole proprietors, partners, directors of corporations and family members who live with these people and are also employed by the company. Employers may buy optional coverage for these workers if they choose.

WHO PAYS FOR THE PROGRAM?

The program is completely funded by assessment premiums collected from Manitoba employers. In return, injured workers cannot sue their employers for pain and suffering or lost income. Neither the provincial nor federal governments provide funding through tax dollars.

HOW MUCH WILL WORKERS COMPENSATION COVERAGE COST?

 How much employers pay depends on the risk level of their industry. For example, high risk industries such as construction pay more than low risk industries such as retail. A separate assessment rate is assigned to each industry. Premiums may be paid in one, two, or three installments, depending on the amount of the premium and how much of the assessment year remains.

BENEFITS:

The WCB's benefits were designed to replace wages if workers should suffer a workplace injury. These include:

• Compensation equal to 100 per cent of net income to be paid to those injured workers who need it most
• Medical aid benefits: some other costs directly related to your workplace injury may also be covered
• Permanent impairment awards: lump sum payments, in addition to your wage loss benefits are given for permanent, physical impairments.
• Compensation for loss of life: fatality benefits
• Vocational rehabilitation: these services may be offered if going back to work presents a problem because of work relayed injury or disease
• 24 hour worker distress line:If an injured worker or member of their family is having trouble dealing with effects of the injury.

Manitoba Contact(s):
Workers Compensation Board of Manitoba
333 Broadway
Winnipeg, Manitoba  R3C 4W3
Telephone: 204-954-4321
Fax: 1-877-872-3804
Toll-free (information): 1-800-362-3340
E-mail: wcb@wcb.mb.ca
Web site: http://www.wcb.mb.ca
Hours of operation: Monday to Friday - 8:30 am - 4:30 pm WCB offices are closed on statutory holidays.