With construction season underway, the Workers Compensation Board (WCB) reminds employers to check the WCB clearance of their contractors and subcontractors.  Clearance confirms that the contractor has Workers Compensation coverage and that their WCB account is in good standing. 

Without clearance, employers may be responsible for their contractor’s or subcontractor’s WCB payments. The workers compensation system is funded entirely by employer assessments, so if a contractor is in default, the cost to protect workers falls upon the principal employer. 

“If you hire a contractor or subcontractor, it is in your best interest to request a WCB clearance letter before the work begins,” said Nancy Guptill, Chair of the Workers Compensation Board.  “We have developed our Online Services to ensure that you get the information you need, when you need it.”

The WCB’s Online Services allow employers to request clearance any time, from anywhere the internet is accessible. Recent enhancements to WCB Online Services also allow employers to receive notification if a clearance status changes.

In addition to the clearance letter service, WCB Online Services offer employers the option to pay assessments, report injuries, and maintain their accounts electronically.  To learn more and to sign up for an Online Services account, click here.