November 27, 2002
Increased funds for workplace safety

Edmonton... The employer-funded Workers’ Compensation Board (WCB) is increasing its annual transfer of funds to the Alberta government by $3.3 million to $9.6 million to support the Workplace Safety 2.0 initiative.
“Workplace Safety 2.0 is a comprehensive strategy developed by industry, labour, safety associations, government and the WCB to reduce injuries and fatalities on Alberta worksites 40% by 2004,” said Alberta Human Resources and Employment Minister Clint Dunford. “The WCB has been an enthusiastic partner in Workplace Safety 2.0 and I want to thank the board for its continued support of our workplace safety programs in general, and the Workplace Safety 2.0 initiative in particular.”
Since 1976, the WCB has transferred money to the provincial government to help cover the costs associated with administering the Occupational Health and Safety Act. The $3.3 million increase will be used to implement the Workplace Safety 2.0 strategy through a series of enhanced enforcement, education and awareness activities.
“Achieving a lost time claims rate of 2.0 by 2004 will mean 15,000 fewer injured workers each year. This will result in a savings of around $200 million in WCB claim costs and lower WCB premiums for Alberta employers,” added Dunford. “The time has come to make safety the new bottom line.”
For more information on Workplace Safety 2.0 call toll free 1-866- 415-8690 or visit online at www.whs.gov.ab.ca



First published January 2003