Understanding Your Employment Income
13 Employment Rights
Anne Lee
Whenever an employment relationship exists, it is important that both the employer and employee are aware of their rights and responsibilities. Employment standards in Canada are primarily under the provincial or territorial jurisdiction. Some common employee financial rights in Canada are listed:
- Minimum Wage – Each province or territory has set a minimum wage rate in which employees have the right to receive for work performed.
- Overtime Pay – Employees working more than a specified number of hours in a week, typically 40 hours, are entitled to remuneration of at least one and a half times the regular hourly rate.
- Other Pay – Depending on the provincial/territorial legislation, employees may be eligible for a minimum vacation pay amount, number of paid sick days, and statutory holiday entitlement.
- Equal Pay – Employees should not be compensated any differently based on gender, race, or other protected characteristics.
- Pay Frequency – Employees have the right to receive their paychecks on a regular schedule and within the timeframe as set-out by the provincial/territorial jurisdiction. Employees in British Columbia cannot be paid on a monthly schedule, whereas that is a suitable pay frequency for Ontario employees.
- Safe Working Environment – It is the responsibility of the employer to provide a safe and healthy working environment to the organization’s employees. This would include providing the necessary safety equipment to perform the work and ensuring employees are adhering to safety regulations. Trade workers have the right to refuse unsafe work without any job repercussions.
- Protection from Discrimination and Harassment – Employees have the right to work in an environment free from discrimination and harassment based on gender, race, religion, age, or other protected characteristics.
- Privacy – Employers are required to protect the personal financial information of employees in accordance with privacy laws and regulations. This would include the employee’s social insurance number, payroll information, and employment status.
As a trade apprentice, it may be prudent to consult with the Provincial/Territorial training authority, employer, or union representatives to fully understand your employment rights.
