The proposed preliminary Rate Framework is the product of discussion, options analysis and reflection. It considers the Pricing Fairness recommendations and goals against a set of Key Goals developed for the proposed preliminary Rate Framework that are identified below. In reviewing the papers, consideration should be given to the merits, potential variations and implications, and the proposed preliminary Rate Framework's Key Goals for the workers' compensation system as a whole.
In developing the Key Goals, it was important to link the rate framework reforms with efforts that lead to improved occupational health and safety outcomes. In meeting these Key Goals, the proposed preliminary Rate Framework recognizes these efforts in setting fair premium rates and acts as an early warning for employers with premium rate implications.
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Clear and Consistent
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A new streamlined and simpler classification structure that is clear and consistent in its application as a foundation.
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Fairly Allocated Premiums
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An approach that ensures a fair premium for workplace coverage, based on each employer's risk and claims experience to ensure occupational health and safety is top of mind for employers as it relates to their premiums.
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Balanced Rate Responsiveness
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A reasonable consideration for premium rate stability, while also ensuring responsiveness to risk and claims experience attained through occupational health and safety efforts to reduce workplace injuries and return workers to productive work.
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Transparent and Understandable
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A Rate Framework that stakeholders can easily understand, and promotes active and informed participation.
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Collective Liability
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A risk sharing arrangement exists among employers who collectively pay premiums to maintain the insurance fund.
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Ease of Administration
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Efficient and effective for the employer community and for the WSIB to administer and maintain.
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The adoption of a new classification structure and prospective Risk Adjusted Premium Rate process would not affect the total amount of premium dollars collected by the WSIB, thereby remaining revenue neutral. However, a new system would, in a reasonable and gradual manner, shift the distribution of premiums among individual employers based on their experience, while ensuring that employers are paying their fair share of workplace coverage.