Occupational health and safety refers to the requirements an employee and employer are expected to implement and follow to ensure organizational safety and well-being. In British Columbia, WorkSafeBC establishes the organizational standards that employers are expected to implement.
If your organization hires an independent contractor it is important to determine whether:
- They pay for their own workers compensation coverage; or
- They are considered a “worker” as defined by WorkSafeBC, and the Division of Family Practice will be responsible for covering their workers compensation coverage
Below are some resources that can be helpful in making that determination:
- WorkSafe BC | Contractors and Subcontractors: Who needs coverage.
- Small Business BC | Do I need workspace coverage.
This section outlines WorkSafeBC requirements and provides tools and guidelines for how Doctors of BC, through their organizations, can meet these obligations and support the health and well-being of their employees.
If you have additional questions or concerns, please consult your Engagement Partner.
ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES
EMPLOYER
Must:
- Determine whether the independent contractor is considered a “worker” as defined by WorkSafeBC and that the appropriate coverage (if applicable) is provided by the independent contractor or by the Division of Family Practice.
- Pay any required workers compensation coverage for any applicable “worker.”
- For all identified “workers,” follow all other Employer responsibilities for occupational health and safety as outlined in the Regular Employees section of this HR Toolkit.
WORKERS
Must:
- (If applicable) ensure that they have the appropriate workers compensation coverage either through personal coverage or through their client/employer.
- Follow all other worker responsibilities for occupational health and safety as outlined in the Regular Employees section of this HR Toolkit.
