Employment Rights in Canada

Employment rights in Canada, including those relevant to workers in Jasper National Park, are safeguarded by a combination of federal and provincial legislation. These rights are designed to protect workers by ensuring fair treatment, safety, and equity in the workplace.

Fundamental employment rights in Alberta, which typically apply unless federal laws override them (as in the case of federal employees or industries such as banking or telecommunications).

Right to Fair Compensation

Workers are entitled to at least the minimum wage set by the province of Alberta. They are also eligible for overtime pay and holiday pay according to the rules laid out by the Alberta Employment Standards Code.

Right to Safe and Healthy Work Environment

Employers must provide a workplace that is free from serious risks and complies with all safety regulations. This includes proper training, equipment, and measures to prevent accidents and injuries.

Right to Non-Discrimination

The Alberta Human Rights Act protects employees from discrimination based on race, national origin, religious beliefs, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, physical disability, mental disability, marital status, family status, source of income, and political beliefs. Employment practices, including hiring, salary, promotions, and terminations, must be free of discrimination.

Right to Privacy

Employees have the right to privacy concerning their personal information and personal lives. Employers must handle employee information confidentially and securely.

Right to Refuse Unsafe Work

Under Alberta’s Occupational Health and Safety Act, workers have the right to refuse work that they believe poses a danger to themselves or others without fear of reprisal, provided that certain procedures are followed.

Right to Family and Medical Leave

Employees are entitled to various types of leave, such as maternity and parental leave, compassionate care leave, and sick leave, as defined by the Alberta Employment Standards Code.

Right to Continue Employment

This includes protection against wrongful dismissal. Employees cannot be terminated without cause without notice or pay in lieu of notice, depending on the length of service. There are also specific rules regarding severance pay under certain conditions.

Right to Organize and Collective Bargaining

Employees have the right to form or join a union and engage in collective bargaining under the Alberta Labour Relations Code.

Right to Access Employment Insurance

If employees lose their job through no fault of their own (e.g., due to layoffs or shortages of work), they may be eligible for Employment Insurance (EI) benefits, which provide temporary financial assistance.

Right to Accommodation

Employers must accommodate employees’ needs to the point of undue hardship, including but not limited to disabilities, religious practices, and family obligations.

Resources for Support and Complaints

Employment Standards Branch

For complaints or queries about wage and hour laws. Alberta Human Rights Commission: For issues related to discrimination.

Occupational Health and Safety (OHS)

For safety violations and right to refuse unsafe work.

Workers' Compensation Board (WCB)

For injuries or illnesses related to the workplace.

Understanding and exercising these rights are crucial for workers in ensuring fair and lawful treatment in the workplace. Employees in Jasper National Park and elsewhere in Alberta should feel empowered to seek help and clarification from relevant authorities when needed.