Today, Labour Day is a just a holiday for students that marks the end of summer. But, is its relevance limited to a day off on our calendars? No, labour day signifies the prolonged struggle against the ruthless labor laws of the 19th century. The Toronto Typographical Union protested against the oppressive working patterns, inhuman work hours, and the unsafe working conditions in organizations. The result of their phenomenal efforts was the passing of The Trade Unions Act on June 14th, 1872.
However, in present times, most employees fail to value the rights and provisions applicable to them. However, as employees, it is crucial for you to be aware of your rights as mentioned in the Employment law of Alberta. This knowledge will help you deal with work-related issues in an effective manner. Most law firms in Edmonton, have a specialized lawyer to deal with violations of employment law. But, to understand the violation of your employment rights, you need to know these rights thoroughly.
Here are the top 4 things every employee should know about employment law:
1. Hours of Work
As per the employment law in Canada, no employee should have a work shift of more than 12 hours in a 24-hour timeline. Employers are obligated to give their employees a rest period of 8 hours between two 12-hour work shifts. Additionally, you are entitled to a break of 30 minutes between two consecutive 5-hour work shifts, and if you and your employer agree, then you can take the 30-minute break in two installments of 15 minutes.
2. Health and Safety
The Occupational Health and Safety Act is the primary governing law for workplace injuries in Canada. Every year, law firms in Edmonton receive cases that are an outcome of the violations of the health and safety standards prescribed by the government. One of the clauses of the Occupational Health and Safety Act is that no employee can be compelled to work in an environment that is dangerous or is detrimental to his safety. If this happens, then the employee has every right to file a complaint with the employment standards officer.
3. Termination
Unlike the US, a change in compensation or commission structures can be considered a reason for termination in Canada. If an employer terminates you without notice or substantial reason, then you have the right to file a case with the help of a law firm in Edmonton. However, an employee, as well as an employer in Edmonton, is allowed to terminate their contract of employment at any given point of time, if the employee is not satisfied with their job conditions or if the employer does no longer need the services of the employee.
4. Payment of Wages
According to the Employment Standards Code in Alberta, all employees deserve to make a living wage. Employers have to stick to the minimum wage for all employees, including employees with disabilities. Wages are exclusive of tips or expense money. Employees must be paid at least 3 hours of pay based on their minimum wage, each time they go to work. This is applicable even if they’re sent home after less than 3 hours.
These were some of the essential rights of employees as per the Employment Law. If you are interested in knowing more about your employee rights, then consult a lawyer from a good law firm in Edmonton.