Mismanaged WCB claims cost Alberta employers more than money — they affect your experience rating, your premiums, and your ability to win contracts. Here is how to handle claims correctly from the moment of injury.
Handling WCB Claims can be time consuming, confusing, and overwhelming to even an experienced safety person. It is very important that WCB Claims are handled effectively from the moment of injury/illness to ensure that the worker is able to recover as soon as possible but also to keep the cost of the claim to a minimum.
Having an effective WCB Claims management process is a proactive approach to control and minimize the impact of a workplace injury/illness to both the employee and the employer.
Part of the process is to understand relevant WCB legislation, implement applicable policies and procedures, how/when to implement modified work, what may potentially impact a claim, how claim decisions are made and how a claim is handled from beginning to end. These are just a few components of an effective WCB Claims management system.
High WCB claims costs will negatively impact a company’s WCB premiums, while no claims will result in discounts. A company’s total claims costs are used to compare an employer’s claims experience to the industry average. The lower the employer’s total claims costs, the better the Employer Experience Ratio will be. Actively monitoring current/active claims and reviewing previous/historical claims for accuracy will also help in keeping claim costs low.
Developing and implementing a process based WCB Management system can be frustrating without the right support and direction. Having the resources and information available, as well as support from management are also key factors in a successful program. Although it may take time and effort to implement a WCB Claims Management process, the rewards will be many.
Written by
Safety Ahead Team
Alberta-based safety consultants with decades of field experience — COR auditors, OHS advisors, and WCB specialists working with employers across the province.
About Safety AheadWe help Alberta employers manage WCB claims from first report to file closure — reducing costs, navigating disputes, and protecting your experience rating.
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