I work in Vancouver, BC. One of the main branches is in my area. I think it depends on whether the contractors you hire as subcontractors or employees are Canadian or American and if they will physically be working in Canada. The WCB is like insurance and mandatory insurance. They also investigate why someone was hurt at the workplace to mitigate accidents in BC. I can only speak for BC since this is where I work and reside. I called them and even if I work from home (working as a computer consultant), by myself with no employees, I myself have to get WCB insurance. I think that's strange though since there is medical coverage here.   There are all sorts of stipulations on how long one stays and works in Canada, if they work across the border (like in Bellingham, WA), etc. I would call them. Generally, they are helpful. What I found is that you speak to one person and have one contact if possible so you can always refer to that person and continue the conversation if you have more questions. I do not think they log their calls as you would if you called your mobile company if you had issues.   Here is the direct page to the Employer and Small Business Centre: http://www.worksafebc.com/employers_and_small_business/default.asp   This is their phone: Phone 604 244-6181Toll-free 1 888 922-2768   Hope this helps.    

In Canada, all businesses need to provide workers compensation. It was started in the early 1900's to avoid lawsuits between employees and employers. It is regulated by the provinces, so you will need to check with whichever provinces is appropriate. Since you are a US company and not employing any Canadian workers, I think you would qualify for the waiver. However, you should contact the WBC in the province to confirm that you can get a waiver and if you can, how to fill that out. The site for British Colombia is worksafebc.com Good Luck. If you get any more information or have additional questions, please post them here. JimD