Lesson 5: WCB - What Is It?

Glossary

The Basis for Worker's Compensation

  • WCB legislation provides benefits to workers who have been injured on the job; this is essentially no-fault insurance coverage. 
  • This is paid for by the employer, to provide insurance coverage for the workers.  This coverage can be in the form of medical treatments, lost wages, job re-training or a pension.
  • When insured by the WCB, neither the worker nor the employer can sue each other.

  • No-fault insurance:  A worker injured while at work and employed in an industry protected by the Act can get benefits. It does not matter who caused the incident. The injured worker and employer cannot sue each other.
  • Collective liability:  All employers who operate in industries covered by the Act pay the cost of the insurance. The provincial government does not fund the WCB. Employers pay all premiums.
  • Fair compensation:  Workers receive benefits based on the type of work-related injury, the seriousness of the injury, and how it affects their ability to earn wages.
  • First payer:  The WCB is responsible for compensating injured workers for work-related injuries even though they may receive benefits from other sources (e.g., Canada Pension Plan).
  • Exclusive jurisdiction:  Across Canada, each WCB governs, manages and decides matters related to its province's Workers' Compensation Act.