WorkSafeBC Ratings Swing Premiums 69% to 163%, VRCA Forum Hears
A contractor’s safety record can move its WorkSafeBC premiums from a discount of up to 69% to a surcharge of up to 163%, Council of Construction Associations (COCA) president Dave Baspaly told a Vancouver Regional Construction Association (VRCA) forum, the Journal of Commerce reports. More than 75 construction professionals attended the September session, titled The Business Side of Safety.
Baspaly said many owners and general contractors won’t consider a bid without Certificate of Recognition (COR) certification or a strong safety record. He added that a serious incident can bring stop-work orders, schedule delays, penalties and legal exposure.
WorkSafeBC data cited at the forum shows the construction time-loss injury rate has fallen 25% over 10 years, and the serious injury rate has fallen 32%. Falls from elevation and workers struck by objects, equipment or vehicles still drive the most serious injuries. From 2021 to 2025, there were nearly 5,800 fall claims and nearly 7,000 struck-by claims.
What It Means for Subcontractors
- Price the rating spread into bids. The 69% discount and 163% surcharge range means a poor safety record can sharply raise your labor burden, while a strong one can lower it. Check your WorkSafeBC experience rating before pricing B.C. work.
- Confirm COR status before your next prequalification. Baspaly said many owners and GCs screen on COR or safety record. Specific owners and thresholds were not detailed at the forum, so check each prequalification package.
- Join the trade contractor session in the next VRCA round. Division Forums run Nov. 9, 10, 12 and 13. The trade contractor session covers contract management, early warning signs and contract terms to avoid. The session date was not specified, so confirm with VRCA.
