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Policy development & consultation process

Issue Identification

As WCB-Alberta becomes aware of issues, we consider whether or not existing policies are adequate, or if new policies should be developed. Some indicators that a review is necessary are: identification of issues by stakeholders or staff, results of a judicial review or compliance with amended legislation.

Research and Analysis

Once an issue is identified, WCB-Alberta begins the research and analysis phase. Depending on the complexity of the issue, research might include an inter-jurisdictional comparison with other WCBs or asking expert consultants for information and advice. Based on the research results, WCB-Alberta develops an analysis and determines the appropriate action to address the issue. When developing policy, WCB-Alberta considers if Stakeholder Input – Stage 1 is required or if the issue should go directly to Stakeholder Input – Stage 2.

Stakeholder Input - Stage 1

Sometimes the research and analysis stage reveals a need for Stage 1 consultation. For Stage 1, WCB-Alberta develops a broad approach to a policy change and this policy concept is posted on the website for 60 days to enable stakeholder input on the proposed approach. WCB-Alberta does not respond to each individual submission, but the input received is considered in determining WCB’s policy direction. In some circumstances, WCB-Alberta may convene a meeting to seek stakeholder input.

Current Consultation open for stakeholder input - Stage 1

There is no Stakeholder Input - Stage 1 consultation open at this time.

View the policy consultation archives

Policy Development

In developing policy, WCB-Alberta ensures that new or modified policy complies with the legislative requirements of the Workers' Compensation Act and takes into consideration the interests of workers, the interests of employers and stakeholder feedback. Policy may be developed following Stakeholder Input - Stage 1; however, a Stage 1 consultation does not have to take place for policy development to occur. When the research and development phase indicates that the required policy change is quite specific, the legislation limits options, or the change is very small in scope, WCB-Alberta will move directly to developing policy. Once policy is drafted, it is sent to the Policy Committee of the Board of Directors for approval to post the draft policy for Stage 2 consultation.

Stakeholder Input - Stage 2

When the Policy Committee of the Board of Directors has completed its review, the draft policy is posted on the WCB-Alberta website for 60 days. The purpose of this second stage posting is to provide advance notice and seek input on an intended policy change. Depending on the nature of the proposed change, WCB-Alberta may convene a meeting to discuss a draft policy.

Current Consultation open for stakeholder input - Stage 2

There is no Stakeholder Input - Stage 2 consultation open at this time.

View the policy consultation archives

Policy Approval

The Board of Directors determines WCB-Alberta policy. When a new or amended policy has been approved by the Board of Directors it is posted on our website under "What's new in policy."

Policy Evaluation

Ongoing review and evaluation is an integral part of WCB-Alberta’s quality assurance process and completes the policy development cycle.

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