Ontario Labour and Employment Law: What You Need to Know
Labour and employment law in Ontario is a complex area that governs the relationship between employers and employees. It includes a variety of laws and regulations that protect the rights of workers and ensures fair and equitable treatment in the workplace.
Here are some key Acts that govern labour and employment relations in Ontario:
Employment Standards Act (ESA):
- Sets out minimum standards for wages, hours of work, overtime pay, vacation pay, public holidays, and other employment conditions.
- Protects employees’ rights to termination and severance pay.
- Provides for leaves of absence, such as maternity and parental leave, sick leave, and bereavement leave.
Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA):
- Ensures safe and healthy workplaces by setting out rules and regulations for employers and workers.
- Requires employers to provide a safe working environment, proper training, and safety equipment.
- Empowers workers to participate in workplace health and safety committees.
Human Rights Code:
- Prohibits discrimination and harassment in the workplace based on protected grounds such as race, sex, religion, age, disability, and sexual orientation.
- Requires employers to take steps to accommodate employees with disabilities.
Labour Relations Act:
- Governs collective bargaining and unionization.
- Provides procedures for certification of unions, collective bargaining, and dispute resolution.
Other Relevant Laws:
- Pay Equity Act: Requires employers to ensure equal pay for work of equal value.
- Workplace Safety and Insurance Act: Provides workers’ compensation benefits for workplace injuries and illnesses.
Important Considerations:
- Employment Contracts: While not always required, employment contracts can define specific terms and conditions of employment, such as salary, bonuses, benefits, and termination provisions.
- Workplace Policies and Procedures: Employers should have clear and consistent policies and procedures in place to address issues such as harassment, discrimination, and disciplinary actions.
- Legal Advice: It is important to consult with an employment lawyer to ensure compliance with all relevant laws and regulations.
Here at Inch Hammond, we have the expertise and knowledge to help employers create an inclusive hiring process and workplace policies that will minimize your risk of litigation.
If you are an employee looking for assistance navigating an employment question, reviewing a new employment contract, or have recently been terminated Inch Hammond can help. Contact us today to obtain more information.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. It is not intended to create a lawyer-client relationship. Please consult a qualified professional for advice on your specific situation.
