By Rajitha Sivakumaran
I
n 2015, there were 852 fatalities in the workplace across
Canada, according to the Association of Workers’ Com-
pensation Boards of Canada (AWCBC). More than 232,000
people were compensated for loss of wages following a
work-related injury or permanent disability. Over the years,
these numbers have generally been declining. Stricter regu-
lations and laws can be thanked for that, but advancements
in information technology is also a reason.
There is a devastating emotional and psychological aspect
to workplace accidents for affected employees. From a busi-
ness perspective, the costs associated with accidents can
be crippling. There are direct costs, like medical expenses,
compensation and even fines and lawsuits. To add to the
nightmare, there are indirect costs too, like property dam-
age, liability costs, labour replacement, decreased produc-
tivity and higher insurance premiums. Moreover, a tainted
business reputation can be irreparable.
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business elite canada
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FEBRUARY 2017
