Are you seeking information about employee rights in Canada? If yes, then, you have landed on the right source to learn about your rights as an employee. In this article, we’ll discuss the employee rights in Canada.
Right to refuse unsafe work
Employees in Canada are provided the right to refuse unsafe work by Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA). With such a power, you have the right to refuse to work in an unsafe environment. This right applies to all workers. However, in specific circumstances, the right to refuse is limited for people who work as police officers, firefighters, and in the healthcare industry. You can refuse to work if there are chances that any machinery, tool, or equipment is likely to endanger you, or the physical condition of the workplace is not suitable for you.
Right to free from harassment and discrimination
You might have come across many cases where workers face discrimination and harassment in their workplace. Issues of this kind can lead to an unhealthy working environment, which affects the productivity of the employees, as well as the reputation of the company. Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) provides workers the right to free from harassment and discrimination. If you come across such a situation, it is imperative to address these issues at the earliest. Canada’s criminal code looks into problems of sexual assault, stalking, and violent acts.
Right to be free from reprisal for filing a complaint against the employer
The Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) provides workers the right to be free from retaliation for filing a claim against the employer. This act prohibits the employers from dismissing or threatening their employees, imposing a penalty, and intimidating them. Also, an employee can file a complaint if they believe they were wrongfully fired. You can consider consulting with an employment lawyer if you suspect you have been subjected to reprisal. An employment lawyer will tell you about the severity of your case.
Right to fair wages
According to the Employment Standards Act (ESA) 2000, men and women in a workplace in Canada, who put same efforts, have same skills, and perform similar responsibilities have the right to be paid equally. For instance, if the job description is same for a male candidate and female candidate, both are supposed to be paid fairly and equally according to the industry standards. Also, skills refer to the knowledge candidates have, and their physical and mental capability needed to perform the job. If the skills are up to the mark then the candidate must be paid fairly regardless of their gender.If you want to learn more about employment laws, feel free to speak with us. Book a consultation at Prowse Barrette LLP today. Our experienced team will help clear all your queries and suggest appropriate legal actions that you need to take if required.