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WorkSafeBC announces 2009 preliminary rates
While the 2009 rates will not be finalized until the fall, WorkSafeBC’s projections show the average published base rate will remain at $1.56 per $100 of employers’ assessable payroll in 2009 - the same as 2008 and the lowest rate in 30 years, down from $2.29 in 1996.
The average published base rate is a composite of rates in 67 individual rate groups. Based on projections for 2009, 40 percent of employers will see their base rates go up or down by 5 cents or less per $100 of assessable worker payroll; 24 percent will see their base rates decrease by more than 5 cents; 29 percent will see their base rates increase between 6 and 25 cents; and 7 percent will see increases of more than 25 cents.
View the 2009 preliminary rates
- To find the base rate for a specific classification unit, search by classification unit name or number.
- View the base rates for all rate groups.
- Browse by industry sector.
Industries with proposed base rate decreases
Rate decreases are projected for construction, forestry, waterfront marine carriers, taxis, and barge operators.
Industries with proposed base rate increases
Industries whose rates are projected to increase include oil & gas exploration, drilling, well servicing; large retail, convenience, furniture and flooring stores; and warehouses. Also seeing increases will be shipbuilding firms, paper mills, greenhouses, restaurants and pubs, physicians, tree planters, casinos, engineers, and various types of medical clinics.
General trucking, couriers, and house construction will see their rates remain virtually unchanged or will incur modest increases.
View a summary of the 2009 preliminary base rate changes.
Additional resources
- Find out how WorkSafeBC sets rates and classifies employers
- View the Introduction to WorkSafeBC Classification, Rate Setting, and Experience Rating (SWF 456kb)
View the WorkSafeBC average published base rate trend information in table form (PDF 24kb) or in chart form (PDF 42kb)
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