Effective January 1, 2013, the Ontario Government has changed the law to expand WSIB coverage in the construction sector!
The following are affected: independent operators, sole proprietors, partners in partnerships and executive officers in corporations.
Most of these people will now have to register with the WSIB to get coverage by January 1, 2013 unless they are exempt.
As well, principals who hire contractors/subcontractors must require a WSIB clearance from them before any construction work can begin.
The law does not change for people who work as employees of construction related firms.
Exemptions
There are two types of exemption. One exemption is for home renovators who work exclusively in home renovation and:
- do not employ workers
- work directly for the homeowner
- are paid directly by the homeowner
The second exemption is for:
- corporations and partnerships with workers
- corporations without workers but with multiple executive officers
- partnerships without workers
Here, the business may select one executive officer or partner to apply for an exemption. To qualify, the individual must not perform any construction work (periodic site visits are permitted). Only one person per company can be exempt.
For more information you can contact the WSIB at www.wsib.on.ca or call us at Fazzari + Partners, LLP at 905 738 5758
