Ontario Construction News staff writer
The Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) says Ontario businesses will see a break on premiums in 2026, with the average rate dropping to $1.23 per $100 of insurable payroll, down from $1.25 this year.
The cut, announced last week, is expected to save businesses about $60 million as they continue to grapple with economic uncertainty.
“We’re proud to do our part to help businesses and contribute to the economic prosperity of Ontario,” said Jeffery Lang, WSIB president and CEO. “We’re able to offer these savings because our team is delivering results, helping people to safely recover and return to work.”
The reduction marks the seventh time in the last decade the WSIB has lowered the average premium rate, which has fallen by more than 50 per cent since 2017. Alongside several surplus distributions, the board says those cuts have saved employers an estimated $21.5 billion over the last 10 years.
Labour Minister David Piccini said the move comes as businesses and workers face pressure from tariffs and broader economic challenges.
“Ontario is laser-focused on keeping costs down for workers and businesses,” Piccini said. “This reduction to WSIB’s average premium rate – the lowest in more than 50 years – will save businesses $60 million to reinvest in health and safety improvements, stay competitive and strengthen our economy.”
Individual 2026 premium rate statements will be available to employers on the WSIB’s website in November.
