As soon as a Belgian company employs staff, it must insure its workers against workplace accidents. This guide explains this legal obligation and how it is calculated and applied.
Compulsory insurance from the first employee
In Belgium, every employer with at least one worker, whether blue-collar, white-collar or a student employee, must take out workplace accident insurance with an approved company. This obligation applies from the first day of employment, with no grace period.
The purpose of this law is to guarantee every worker swift compensation in the event of an accident, without having to prove the employer's fault or start a lengthy legal procedure.
What workplace accident insurance covers
Coverage extends to accidents occurring at the workplace, but also to accidents occurring on the normal route between home and work, known as commuting accidents.
The insurance covers medical, pharmaceutical and hospitalisation costs, as well as compensation for temporary or permanent incapacity for work, and a pension in the event of the worker's death.
How the premium is calculated
The workplace accident insurance premium is calculated mainly on the basis of the company's annual gross payroll and the type of activity carried out. Higher-risk sectors, such as construction, generally have a higher rate per wage than office activities.
This is why every company must accurately report the number of workers, their role and their pay in order to obtain a fair, compliant rate.
The consequences of not being insured
An employer who has not taken out this compulsory insurance is automatically affiliated ex officio by Fedris, the competent federal body, and must then pay an increased contribution on top of possible penalties.
This situation must absolutely be avoided: beyond the financial risk, it exposes the company to heavy administrative and legal complications in the event of a real accident.
LC Credins's digital support
LC Credins helps both startups and established SMEs set up this compulsory insurance quickly, by comparing several approved insurers based on your payroll and sector of activity.
Our digital approach keeps you compliant with Belgian law while controlling your payroll costs, with a single point of contact for any future change.
Bring your company into compliance
Request a free quote for your workplace accident insurance, tailored to your payroll and sector.