ON-06 — WSIB expanded compulsory coverage in construction

WSIB expanded compulsory coverage in construction. People who own or run a construction business, with or without employees, must have coverage and must register, with exceptions. Reaches independent operators, sole proprietors, some partners and some executive officers. Independent operator test — all four: performs or manages Class G construction work; has no employees; works as a contractor or subcontractor for more than one person over an 18-month period; and reports as self-employed to a government agency such as CRA. Home-renovation exemption: not required where the business only repairs or renovates private residences and is hired and paid directly by the homeowner or resident — employees must still be covered, the exemption is not retroactive, and WSIB must be contacted within 10 business days. Insurable earnings for independent operators: 100% of contract value for labour only, 60% where labour plus major materials and labour is not separately verifiable, 33.3% for labour plus heavy construction equipment