Snow removal is physical, cold, night time work. Crews slip on the same ice they are clearing, strain backs shovelling and lifting, and work around moving equipment. Workers compensation is how employee injuries are handled in Canada, and it runs through a provincial board, not a private insurer.
How It Works
Each province operates a workers compensation board. Employers register, report payroll, pay premiums based on their industry classification, and injured workers receive benefits from the board. In exchange, workers generally cannot sue their employer for workplace injuries.
Province by Province
- Ontario: the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board. See WSIB for snow removal businesses in Ontario.
- British Columbia: WorkSafeBC. See WorkSafeBC for snow removal businesses.
- Alberta: the Workers' Compensation Board of Alberta. See WCB Alberta for snow removal businesses.
- Saskatchewan: the Saskatchewan Workers' Compensation Board. See WCB Saskatchewan for snow removal businesses.
Whether registration is mandatory depends on your province and how your business is classified. Contact the board directly or ask your broker, who deals with these questions regularly.
Owners and Subcontractors
Owners and sole proprietors are often not automatically covered and may be able to purchase optional personal coverage. Subcontractors may need their own accounts, and a clearance certificate from a subcontractor can protect you from being assessed for their premiums.
Clients Ask for Proof
Commercial and institutional clients frequently require a clearance certificate from the provincial board along with your insurance certificate. See certificates of insurance explained.
Not the Same as Liability Insurance
Workers compensation covers your workers. It does not cover injuries to the public, which is what general liability is for.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need workers compensation to plow snow?
If you have employees, provincial workers compensation rules likely apply, depending on your classification. Check with your provincial board.
Does workers compensation cover me as the owner?
Often not automatically. Many boards offer optional personal coverage for owners.
Why do clients ask for a clearance certificate?
It shows your account is in good standing and protects the client from being held responsible for your premiums.