FAQ's
Have questions? Made Safe has the answers.
As our program evolves, we will continue to collect frequently asked questions and post the responses here.
1) Is Made Safe a new program?
On January 1, 2016, Made Safe assumed responsibility for the existing Agricultural Manufacturers of Canada (AMC) Safety Program, previously serving the agricultural implement manufacturing sector. Made Safe is pleased to be building on the impressive success of AMC Safety, and has worked diligently to enhance services and expand resources and support to all segments of the manufacturing community ever since.
2) Will this program mean more regulations or rules for the industry?
No. Regulations and regulatory enforcement are the responsibility of Workplace Safety & Health – Growth, Enterprise & Trade. Made Safe will provide information and assistance to help employers comply with the regulations that have been established. Made Safe doesn’t change the regulations; rather, it helps employers to effectively apply them.
3) How will my WCB rate be affected?
If you are in a levied rate code, you are already paying a levy on your premiums. If a company successfully implements more safety measures and improves its safety record, it may see premiums go down over time. In addition, once you achieve safety certification, you’ll benefit from a financial incentive through rebates in WCB premiums.
4) Is this just a way for the WCB to make more money?
No. The money collected through the levy is returned to fund the safety program.
5) What will the programs and services cost?
Many services are available at no additional cost for members. Some services, like testing services or more intensive on-site support, may involve a fee on a cost-recovery basis. The safety council sets all program and service fees based on industry needs and priorities.
Companies belonging to rate groups that have yet to meet the threshold may still be able to access the program on a higher fee for service basis. For this reason, we strongly encourage you to spread the word among peers in your rate group to express their support for Made Safe. The sooner the participation threshold is reached; the sooner you can access benefits at no additional cost.
6) What role will CME Manitoba have?
As the voice of manufacturing in Manitoba, CME administers Made Safe. CME is responsible for the contract with the WCB / SAFE Work Manitoba and provides the administrative structure and oversight for the program. By sharing and leveraging resources, CME and Made Safe can offer the best of both worlds.
7) What is the role of the safety council?
The safety council, made up of representatives from across the sub-groups in manufacturing, provides direction to the program and ensures an ongoing close connection to the industry. The council determines the programs and services to be offered, identifies priorities and allocates the program budget. Made Safe is industry led.
8) Is this program just for CME Manitoba members?
No. It’s for all employers in the covered rate codes (sub-sectors of manufacturing identified by WCB).
9) Will I be forced to pay the levy?
If enough employers within a sub sector (rate code) agree to support the safety program, all employers within the rate code will be required to pay the levy.
10) What are the rate codes? Where do I fit?
WCB rate codes for manufacturing. For more information about your WCB account, visit www.wcb.mb.ca at or call 1-855-954-4321.
11) What is this safety certification all about?
SAFE Work Manitoba Certification provides the basis for employer-based certification programs across industries. Made Safe is the certifying partner for SAFE Work Manitoba for manufacturing. Upon certification, companies are eligible for a rebate in WCB premiums.
Made Safe certification is voluntary. It provides a reasonable standard for effective safety programs and an audit process to confirm a company meets the standard. It includes standards for hazard assessment and control, leadership commitment and employee understanding and involvement in the company’s safety program. It’s based on and intended to help ensure compliance with the Workplace Safety and Health Act and applicable regulations.