What is the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board WSIB?

The Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) administers Ontario’s no-fault workplace insurance system under the Workplace Safety and Insurance Act (WSIA), 1997. It provides compensation and benefits to workers injured or ill due to work and is funded entirely by employer premiums. 

For employers, these premiums go towards protecting them in the event a worker suffers an injury in a workplace accident. This collective liability insurance gives employers peace of mind knowing they’re generally protected from being sued by an injured worker. 

Workers injured in a workplace accident are entitled to receive benefits paid out by the WSIB, including healthcare coverage and loss of earnings benefits. 

The WSIB also supports employers and employees during the return-to-work process.

WSIB clearance certificate

A WSIB clearance certificate (sometimes called a WSIB certificate or WSIB clearance) is an official document from the WSIB confirming that a business is registered for WSIB coverage (if required) and that its premiums are paid and in good standing. 

It is commonly required in the construction industry when hiring contractors or subcontractors, as businesses must obtain a valid WSIB clearance certificate to avoid being held liable for unpaid premiums. A WSIB clearance certificate is also often required before awarding contracts, releasing payments, or starting work on a job site, particularly for public sector or commercial projects. In other industries, a WSIB certificate may be requested as part of contractual risk management, even when not legally mandatory. 

Businesses required to register with the WSIB 

Most Ontario businesses with employees, including family members or subcontractors, must register with the WSIB within 10 calendar days of hiring their first employee if their industry is mandatorily covered under Schedule 1, Part I and Schedule 2 of the Workplace Safety and Insurance Act (WSIA), 1997. 

Mandatory coverage applies to industries such as: 

  • Construction (with expanded compulsory rules for many owners/operators) 
  • Restaurants or bars 
  • Sales and services 
  • Manufacturing 
  • Trucking or transportation 
  • Homeowners hiring domestic employees (e.g., nannies or housekeepers) who work more than 24 hours per week 

If you’re unsure whether you’re legally required to register, give our experts a call at 1-888-216-2550 and we can advise. 

WSIB for small businesses 

Small businesses and startups rely on WSIB coverage for financial protection in the event of a workplace accident. If you’re unsure whether you need to register, speak with our qualified health and safety experts today. 

Employer responsibilities under WSIB 

Provide first aid 
If a worker needs treatment from a healthcare professional, you must arrange transportation to a medical facility and cover transportation costs. 

Report incidents 
Employers must submit an Employer’s Report of Injury/Disease (Form 7) within three business days of learning about an injury or illness if the worker: 

  • Needs health care beyond first aid 
  • Loses time from work or earns less than regular pay 
  • Requires modified work (even at regular pay) beyond the initial period 

If a worker is on modified duties at regular pay without seeking health care, the reporting obligation generally begins on the 8th calendar day of modified work. Form 7 is then due within three business days. Provide a copy of Form 7 to the worker, who must complete and submit Form 6. 

Keep records 
Employers must investigate the incident, keep records, and document corrective actions. 

What if an employer fails to report? 

Employers may face penalties or prosecution for failing to report, reporting late, providing incomplete information, or discouraging a worker from reporting an injury or illness

Have questions about WSIB or your obligations? Call our workplace health and safety experts today at 1-888-216-2550.