Should You be Worried About Workwell?

With the Workwell Audit list being delayed this year you may be one of those companies who are anxiously waiting to find out if they made the list this year.  Or you may be one of those companies who have no idea that Workwell exists until they receive their letter in the mail or receive the call. 

What is Workwell and why should we be concerned?  According to the WSIB Workwell  website.... Workwell exists "because unsafe companies increase insurance and compensation costs for everyone... the WSIB's Workwell program performs on-site health and safety evaluations of firms when their injury experience indicates that there is a higher risk of injury at their workplace (compared to other firms doing similar work)."

Workwell is an "all or nothing" point based system that focuses on 12 areas of Health & Safety called "elements." The auditor will visit your workplace and examine Health & Safety policies, procedures, records and other related documents, as well as observe safe practices and procedures in action, inspect the workplace and interview staff and management.  Auditors are looking for consistent application, implementation and enforcement of your company's Health & Safety Program with documentation required to show that all staff have been trained and transference of knowledge has occurred.

Why would you be on the list? Workwell identifies employers with:

• Particularly poor accident records and/or
• High accident costs compared to their rate group and/or
• History of non-compliance with Occupational Health & Safety Act
  
  

The outcomes of the Workwell assessment will determine whether or not financial penalties will be incurred as well as a potential for increased labour costs and future WSIB costs. These assessments are very extensive and time consuming. Not being properly prepared for an Audit can have serious financial implications and can also result in your business receiving more than your share of Ministry of Labour attention.

What are the consequences of failing an Audit?  Employers must achieve a score of 75% or better to pass. 75% of employers will fail their first audit, 24% fail the second time.  If you fail your first audit you will be given approximately six months to put your "house" in order before your second evaluation.  

The consequences of failing your second audit are costly in many ways. Namely the financial penalties (10-70% of your WSIB premium), potential increases in future WSIB costs, possible stop work orders, more frequent visits from the MOL, and potential damage to your employee's morale, and company's reputation.

Workwell works on the premise that Safety is Everyone's business.  Measuring the strength of your Health & Safety program should always be an ongoing continuous process. Even if you are not facing an actual Audit, the Workwell program is an excellent guide to help you develop a Health & Safety Program and potentially avoid an Audit in future.

A Workwell Audit can be turned into a positive experience that delivers benefits and not fines. Clear Path can help you be confident that your company, management and employees are fully prepared to pass the first time.

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