Harassment in the workplace: What it looks like and how to handle it
It could be a touch on the shoulder, a demeaning comment in front of colleagues or an inappropriate invitation to get together outside of working hours. While these acts may be initially easy to shrug off, with time and repetition they can quickly cross over into workplace harassment. But where is that line drawn?
Addressing the Gender Wage Gap: The Pay Transparency Act
What should employers know about pending changes to equal pay? Read about the Pay Transparency Act, which promotes gender equality in the workplace through increased transparency over compensation.
Will They Believe Me? Workplace Investigations and Credibility
In Ontario, the Occupational Health and Safety Act imposes a statutory obligation on employers to investigate workplace harassment and workplace violence. The investigation must be timely, objective, confidential, and thorough. A workplace investigation is typically conducted with reference to the civil standard of proof, whether it was more likely than not that an alleged event or conduct occurred.
Cannabis law update to significantly affect workplaces
What is the proposed change to pot consumption in the workplace? Read about the recent Cannabis Statute Law Amendment Act, and how it changes where and how marijuana can be consumed.
Is an Employer Required to Offer Alternative Employment Before Terminating an Employee?
Sometimes an employee may find they are not able to perform their job adequately, or cannot keep up with the demands of the role. In these cases, what are the options for an employer? Can they be dismissed, or do they have to find an alternative role for the employee? Our latest Employment Law blog post looks at a recent Quebec case that tackled this question.
Do You Have to Put Up With “Locker-Room” Talk in the Workplace?
Many people face workplace sexual harassment on a daily basis. It can come in many forms, including derogatory comments, inappropriate touching, repeated advances, propositions, pressure to laugh at inappropriate jokes or being forced to look at explicit imagery. And it can be difficult to know what to do.
Denying Employees’ Benefits Based on Age is Discrimination and Unconstitutional
While mandatory retirement ended over ten years ago, older workers are unfortunately not immune from age-related discrimination. In Talos v. Grand Erie District School Board, the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario looked at a situation where an older worker lost his benefits when he reached the age of 65.
Am I Eligible for EI Sickness Benefits?
Canada’s Employment Insurance program provides individuals with temporary financial assistance when they are out of work. This assistance includes “sickness benefits” to support individuals who would otherwise be able to work were it not for an illness or injury. Our latest Employment Law blog post looks at eligibility for EI Sickness Benefits.
Marijuana and Employment – Will I Be Able To Smoke at Work?
Once marijuana is legalized, will employees be able to smoke pot at work? In our latest Employment Law blog post, take a look at Jim Anstey talking about marijuana in the workplace.
How Is Holiday Pay Calculated?
We are fortunate in Ontario to have nine public holidays each year. If your employment is covered by the Employment Standards Act (ESA), then you are entitled to be paid for these holidays. Bill 148, the Fair Workplaces, Better Jobs Act, made changes to this calculation recently.