If you operate a stable, farm, shop, yard, or other small business in British Columbia, you may occasionally hire people who are described as “contractors.” They may help with feeding, cleaning stalls, equipment work, repairs, hauling, landscaping, or other day-to-day tasks.
It is important to understand that calling someone a contractor does not automatically make them one for WorkSafeBC purposes.
WorkSafeBC looks at the real working relationship. If your business directs the person’s duties and schedule, provides the workplace or equipment, and relies on them for regular work, WorkSafeBC may consider that person your worker. This can apply even if the person invoices you, is paid by cheque or e-transfer, or considers themselves self-employed.
If a business hires workers or unregistered subcontractors, it generally needs WorkSafeBC coverage and may be responsible for reporting and paying premiums for those workers. If someone is hurt while doing work for the business, WorkSafeBC will review the circumstances and determine whether the person is covered as a worker.
Every workplace needs safety planning.
Small businesses do not necessarily need a large, complicated safety manual—but they do need a practical health and safety program.
For a small stable or similar operation, that may include:
- A basic written list of workplace hazards.
- Safe-work procedures for routine tasks.
- Training and orientation for anyone doing work.
- First-aid arrangements and emergency contacts.
- Procedures for reporting injuries, near misses, and hazards.
- Regular documented safety discussions with workers.
At a stable, common hazards include horses, kicks and bites, slips and falls, lifting feed or hay, dust, cleaning chemicals, vehicle traffic, equipment, and working alone. Taking a few practical steps before an incident occurs is far easier than dealing with the consequences afterward.
When to request a clearance letter
A WorkSafeBC clearance letter confirms whether a contractor is registered with WorkSafeBC and whether their account is in good standing. It is an important document when hiring a contractor or subcontractor to perform work for your business.
Examples may include a contractor hired for repairs, construction, excavation, manure removal, equipment work, cleaning services, landscaping, or other on-site labor.
A clearance letter is usually not necessary for a simple supplier delivery. For example, a company that drops off shavings, feed, or other products and leaves is generally acting as a supplier or carrier—not a contractor performing work for your operation. However, if that company also provides labor to spread bedding, clean out stalls, operate equipment, or complete regular on-site work, obtaining a clearance letter is a good practice.
To get a clearance letter:
- Go to the WorkSafeBC Clearance Letter online application.
- Search the contractor or business by its legal name, operating name, or WorkSafeBC account number.
- Request the letter in your business’s name.
- Save a copy in your contractor file before work begins.
- Request another letter when the work or contract is complete, especially for longer projects.
Clearance letters are one useful part of contractor management—but they do not replace safe work practices, proper supervision, or a clear understanding of who is working for your business.
For help with worker classification, coverage questions, or safety-program requirements, contact WorkSafeBC directly or speak with a qualified occupational health and safety professional.