Author, Matt Gorham, Account executive, Rancho Mesa Insurance Services, Inc.

In an effort to keep up with wage inflation, California’s Workers’ Compensation Insurance Rating Bureau (WCIRB) has recommended increases to all 16 construction dual wage thresholds, which, if approved, would impact policies beginning on September 1, 2024 and could drive up insurance premiums for those unaware.

Dual wage thresholds help carriers evaluate risk of employee injury by correlating average hourly wage with experience on the job. The general notion is that employees with more experience command higher wages and are less likely to get injured at work, while employees with less experience are paid a lower wage, are less familiar with safety and jobsite protocols, and therefore more likely to be injured at work. This difference in risk leads to a difference in cost for insurance premiums, with higher paid employees costing their employers comparatively less in premium.

Using the base rate of $31 or more per hour from one carrier, consider the example of a plumber: a plumber earning $30 per hour will cost their employer $9.31 per $100 of payroll, while a plumber earning $31 per hour will cost their employer $4.35 per $100 of payroll. That is roughly a 47% higher cost in premium per $100 for an employee earning 3% less per hour.

Since the last time the WCIRB suggested an increase to the dual wage thresholds in December 2021, inflation and labor shortages have continued to drive up wages in the construction industry. According to the St. Louis Fed, average hourly earnings in construction have increased from $33.60 to $37.53 – more than 11% in that time. While wages are going up, the experience of employees is not keeping pace, leaving insurance carriers exposed. To address this disparity, the proposed threshold increases from the WCIRB range from $1 for plumbing, automatic sprinkler, concrete work, and painting/waterproofing to $4 for sheet metal/HVAC work.

To get ahead of this proposed change, business owners should consider whether it is more beneficial to award employees with raises or to pay more in insurance premiums. With increased overhead costs likely coming either way and quality employees already in short supply, not only could strategic raises offer relative savings, they could strengthen the loyalty from your team.

While this proposed change still needs final approval by the insurance commissioner, it is expected to have a major impact on wages and potentially premiums within the construction industry.

To evaluate the impact of the proposed dual wage threshold increase on your business, contact me at (619) 486-6554 or mgorham@ranchomesa.com.