The Safety Groups Program Improving workplace safety is easier if you can learn from other firms’ experience and knowledge. The Safety Groups program provides you with a network of firms who share the common goal of reducing injuries and illnesses. Together, Safety Group members pool resources, share best practices and help each other develop and manage effective health and safety programs. Along with improving workplace safety, you can reduce your WSIB premiums and earn financial rebates. Participants speak highly of the program. Program members receive 2006 rebates for collectively improving their workplace health and safety. Materials for download Safety Groups Program Brochure (226k, pdf) Safety Groups Program Members' Update (196k, pdf) How the Program Works At the beginning of each year, your firm selects five safety elements that it will initiate or improve upon from the Safety Group’s Element List provided by the WSIB. Your firm will learn how to implement these initiatives by attending meetings, sharing ideas and pooling resources with other firms in your safety group. Each safety group has a sponsor that leads and coordinates the group. The Sponsor’s Guidelines (185k, pdf) contain detailed information on the sponsor’s role. At the end of the year, your group can receive a rebate, based on the entire group’s success in implementing their selected safety elements. Program Eligibility To participate in the Safety Groups Program, your firm must: Have commitment from the owner or senior management to participate in the program Create and enhance a safety culture in the workplace Be a Schedule 1 firm Be in good standing with the WSIB Be committed to participating for a least one full calendar year Participate in only one safety group at a time Not be a member of the Safe Communities Incentive Program (SCIP). See a list of safety groups you can join. Participation Requirements To maintain your status in the Safety Groups program and to be eligible for the financial rebate, you must complete the following requirements: Participate in at least three safety group meetings throughout the year Complete baseline and year-end assessments of your firm’s health and safety program strengths and weaknesses Develop and implement an action plan of health and safety elements Keep the sponsor informed of your progress Submit a year-end achievement report documenting your accomplishments for the year. The Employers' Guidelines (2.2mb, pdf) contain detailed information on the employer's role. Interested in joining Safety Groups? Fill out a firm application form (385k, pdf). Benefits of the Safety Groups Program Along with your portion of the group’s rebate, your firm will continue to receive refunds or surcharges under your regular experience rating program (NEER, CAD-7, or MAP), based on individual performance. In addition to financial gains, safety group members stand to gain: Access to health and safety resources Enhanced public perception Healthy and stable workforce Increased productivity Improved quality Increased employee morale Forms Safety Groups Program Firm Application Form (385k, pdf) Safety Groups Action Plan (193k, pdf) Safety Groups Action Plan Progress Report (152k, pdf) Safety Groups Year-end Achievement Report (162k, pdf) Safety Groups Year-end Maintenance Report (241k, pdf) Contact You can contact the Prevention Division at: 1-800-663-6639 or 416-344-1016 or send an email to prevention@wsib.on.ca. You can also contact a Safety Groups sponsor. Back to Top