Cindy Pelzer

Saskatchewan Workers'​ Compensation Board

Workers' compensation insurance is a provincial responsibility. Each Canadian province and territory has its own workers' compensation legislation. All compensation systems are based on an historic compromise dating back 100 years. In that compromise, employers agree to cover the costs of workers' compensation insurance and benefits, and in return receive protection from civil law suits when an injury occurs. In return for giving up their right to sue an employer if they were hurt on the job, workers receive a guarantee of benefits – including wage loss. We operate like an insurance company. We protect registered employers from lawsuits when a workplace injury happens and we provide guaranteed benefits and programs to injured workers in industries covered by the Act. Our costs are funded entirely by premiums paid by employers in covered industries. The premiums are based on injury frequency and costs. Any injured worker in an industry covered by the Act can claim benefits and programs. Any employer in an industry covered by the Act must register with us and pay invoiced premiums. We see the effects of workplace injuries every day and believe that even one injury is too many. That's why we are leaders in promoting workplace safety and injury prevention.