FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 21, 2009 

The Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Commission (WHSCC) is maintaining the average base assessment rate of $2.75 for employers in 2010, and increasing the maximum compensable and assessable earnings limit from $50,379 to $51,235.  

The assessment rate is the rate paid by employers to cover anticipated claims costs and the cost of administering the workers’ compensation system. It is based on the industry group in which employers are classified and the cost experience of the group. 
 
While the average assessment rate remains unchanged, an estimated 58% of employers will experience a rate decrease, while 42% will see an increase, based on industry group performance. For 2010, the maximum increase or decrease will not exceed 20%.  

The increase in maximum compensable and assessable earnings is based on the consumer price index (CPI) and represents a 1.7% increase for 2010. Any injured worker whose pre-injury earnings are at or above the new maximum compensable limit will be compensated based on the new limit effective January 1, 2010.  

Serving over 16,000 employers and approximately 12,000 injured workers, the WHSCC is an employer-funded, no fault insurance system that promotes safe and healthy workplaces, provides return-to-work programs and fair compensation to injured workers and their dependants. 

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Chris Flanagan
Acting Director of Communications
Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Commission
Telephone: 709-778-1590 or 1-800-563-9000 

Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Commission
146-148 Forest Road •  St. John’s • NL  • A1A 3B8
Telephone (709) 778-1000 •1-800-563-9000
www.whscc.nl.ca
 

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