It’s common knowledge that Canada has some of the best employment laws globally, protecting you as an employee and giving you specific rights, including vacation time, sick days, maternity leave, and even minimum wage. But do you know what your rights are as an employee? If not, there’s no time like the present to learn! Read on to get tips on employment law basics you Should know as a Mississauga employee.
1. Workplace Harassment
Harassment on a job can take many forms, ranging from direct physical assault to more subtle discrimination, humiliation, and isolation. The harassment is not just upsetting; it’s illegal and violates your rights under federal and provincial employment laws.
If you’re facing harassment at work, it’s crucial to talk to an employment lawyer who can help protect your legal rights. Contacting an experienced employment lawyer Mississauga today is an excellent place to start. They will help answer any questions about workplace harassment or other labor law issues affecting you or your family.
2. Health and Safety in the Workplace
Knowing health and safety practices law requirements is vital if you start a new job in Mississauga. While some companies will provide you with extensive information, others might hand you a short pamphlet or refer you to their website. Employers must ensure that employees access adequate washroom facilities, clean drinking water, and proper ventilation in Mississauga. They must also protect workers from excessive noise levels and extreme temperatures.
3. Unpaid Wages and The Minimum Wage Act
You should be aware of many employment standards and laws if you’re an employee in Mississauga. The two main issues frequently arise regarding employment in Mississauga, Ontario, are unpaid wages and minimum wage violations. These aren’t small matters. As an employee, these issues can have a massive impact on your life. Unpaid wages arise when employees work for companies where employers owe them money.
The wages covers hours worked, overtime pay (if applicable), tips earned, and bonuses. These requirements vary depending on your occupation, but speak up if you’re unsure about any aspect of your employment contract! Your employer is legally obligated to provide all necessary information for your protection. If you believe that your employer has not paid you all of your wages or has not paid them on time, then contact an employment lawyer Mississauga immediately.
4. Contractual Terms of Employment
Before accepting any job offer, review your contract to ensure that you’re comfortable with all of its terms. For example, many employment contracts include non-compete clauses—these provisions prevent you from working for a competitor within a specific timeframe after leaving your employer. Non-competes are often unenforceable in Canada, but it’s still important to read and understand them before signing on.
Many employers also require employees to sign agreements waiving their right to sue in case of wrongful dismissal. If you find yourself presented with such a clause, make sure you understand it and ask questions before signing anything. An experienced employment lawyer can help you navigate these tricky issues.
5. Dismissal and Severance Package
During a layoff, the employer can terminate employment for reasons beyond an employee’s control (e.g., downsizing or business closure). It is not illegal to dismiss employees in a layoff unless they get less notice than if it was a dismissal for a cause. In that case, the employer must provide laid-off employees with written notice of termination and severance pay.
The severance package amount depends on how long you have worked and how much you earned per year. In Mississauga, you have an entitlement to 1 week of pay per year worked up to 8 weeks of payment. However, your employer can provide more generous terms in their employment contract. However, consult with an employment lawyer Mississauga for protection and guidance in case of wrongful or constructive dismissal.
Conclusion
Every employee in Mississauga should be aware of fundamental employment law issues. Your employer must follow a set of guidelines that courts and tribunals enforce. If you feel your employer has violated your rights, don’t wait to seek advice from an employment lawyer. Not knowing your legal rights could cost you thousands of dollars in lost wages and entitlements or, worse, your job.
