The workforce in BC is heavily regulated. Depending on your type of business and industry, you (the employer) may be regulated provincially, federally, or both. Here are the types of legislation that you should know.
Employment Standards Act
Generally, employment standards and labour expectations can be complex. They are often governed by legislation that’s varied by regulations that may be industry-specific. Besides, certain exceptions may apply to certain types of workers like professionals and managers regardless of the industry.
To avoid coercion, we advise workers not to contract out of minimum employment standards or requirements through a written agreement with potential employers. However, it’s possible to obtain exemptions to some of these requirements, especially if there’s a compelling reason.
Employers must understand all legal provisions regarding hours of work, vacations, parental leave, statutory holidays, sick leave, overtime pay, and more. Consult our experienced employment lawyers to consider all aspects of employment standards and ensure they align with your organization’s policies regarding workplace safety, termination, and more.
Human Rights
In British Columbia, human rights laws prohibit discrimination in every aspect of employment. The legislation provides that every employee has the right to fair and equal treatment in the workplace. No employee should be discriminated against based on their colour, place of origin, creed, citizenship, race, gender expression, disability, and marital status. Discrimination based on these aspects will constitute a human rights violation.
Additionally, workers have the right to a safe workplace that’s free from any form of harassment based on the prohibited bases of discrimination. Thus, you need the help of an experienced employment lawyer to stay compliant and to draft and implement company policies that prevent workplace harassment and other violations of human rights in your workplace.
Occupational Health and Safety
Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) legislation requires employers to create and implement a health and safety program to minimize safety risks and protect employees. They must conduct risk assessments, update policies, train employees, and implement health and safety measures to protect workers from violence and harassment in the workplace.
Beyond these employment law essentials, employers are legally required to stay compliant with other legal requirements regarding labour relations, workers’ compensation, public health insurance, employment insurance, and more. Failure to adhere to relevant legal requirements can result in disputes, lawsuits, and significant financial consequences for any employer.
At the law firm of Doran Law, our experienced employment lawyers can help ensure that your organization remains compliant with all relevant labour laws and regulations. We will review your company’s policies and practices regarding labour relations, workplace health and safety, workers’ compensation, public health insurance, employment insurance, and other related issues to identify any areas of non-compliance and help you address them.