People-strength continues to drive results for WCB-Alberta 2007

Corporate results prove partnerships are working

EDMONTON, AB – At today’s annual general meeting, WCB-Alberta presented its 2007 results delivering the powerful message that the system is stronger when all stakeholders work together.

“It takes effort from all of us to make the workers’ compensation system work,” Guy Kerr, WCB President and CEO told stakeholders today. “Strong partnerships are crucial. From WCB employees to employers, labour leaders, workers, health care professionals and government; our concern for working Albertans is the key to maintaining a strong and fair system.”

WCB-Alberta has released its 2007 Annual Report. Some of the highlights include:

• Lost-time claim rate of 2.1 per 100 workers - continuing the downward trend
• Disabling-injury rate of 3.6 per 100 workers - starting the downward trend
• Average employer premium rate 8.9 per cent lower than the previous year
• Actual return-to-work results of 91.6 per cent

This consistently steady advance by WCB-Alberta places the organization in a solid strategic position to face the coming challenges. “One of the pressures on the system is the growing number of workers covered in the province,” stated Kerr. “Another huge challenge is the volatility of the investment markets and the economy in general. We’ve put the right plans in place to withstand those risks.” Kerr explained to stakeholders how WCB-Alberta plans ensure that worker benefits are protected now and in the future.

WCB-Alberta is well positioned to once again post the lowest premium rates in the country for 2009. “Alberta has had the lowest premium rates in the country for the last few years”, Chair of the Board, David Carpenter told stakeholders, “with a clearly articulated strategy and both focus and purpose, this organization is doing the right things.” Carpenter indicated that the average premium rate forecast for 2009 will be a decrease to $1.25 per $100 of insurable earnings.

The Workers' Compensation Board (WCB) - Alberta is a not-for-profit organization legislated to administer the workers' compensation system for the province. Through the payment of premiums, 135,000 employers fund this no-fault system to provide compensation for workplace injuries and occupational diseases to over 1.7 million workers.

The webcast of the Annual General Meeting is available for viewing for thirty days following the event. For more information or to view the webcast, go to www.wcb.ab.ca. The WCB 2007 Annual Report is posted on WCB’s website.

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2007 Year at a Glance (pdf, 39KB)
2007 Accountability Framework (pdf, 200KB)
2007 Investment Report (pdf, 974KB)
2009 Forecasted premium rates

Media Inquiries: Jennifer Dagsvik
Media Relations Specialist
WCB-Alberta
Phone: 780-717-5855
Fax: 780-498-7875
E-mail: jennifer.dagsvik@wcb.ab.ca