The Occupational Health and Safety Act (the “OHSA”) the cornerstone of workplace safety in Ontario, Canada, is designed to protect employees from workplace hazards and risks. By establishing clear standards and guidelines, the OHSA promotes safe and healthy work environments for workers across all industries. Central to its framework are three fundamental rights
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Does Termination Go on Your Record of Employment in Ontario?
Getting terminated from a job can be a stressful and uncertain experience, especially when considering its impact on your career. Many employees wonder, “Does termination go on my employment record?” In Ontario, understanding how a termination may affect your employment prospects and legal rights is essential for navigating the job market and dealing with former…
Can You Go to Jail for Stealing Time at Work?
Stealing time at work often referred to as “time theft” is an issue that impacts many workplaces in Ontario, Canada. While it is usually dealt with as a workplace misconduct issue, severe cases involving significant financial loss or fraudulent behaviour can lead to more serious legal consequences, including potential incarceration. This blog post outlines the…
Firing an Employee in Ontario: What Employers Need to Know
Firing an employee in Ontario is rarely an easy task. It requires careful planning, legal awareness, and professionalism to manage the situation with tact and fairness. Termination can be emotionally charged, leaving employees in vulnerable positions, which makes it essential for organizations to handle the process responsibly.
Legal Considerations When Firing an Employee in Ontario…
Crucial Times When Not to Sign a Severance Agreement
When offered a severance agreement in Ontario, it is critical to understand what to look for before signing it. Severance agreements often carry legal and financial implications that can affect your future. Knowing the key moments to refuse to sign such as when planning legal action, suspecting insufficient severance pay, or lacking legal representation can…
Employee Rights During HR Investigation
Workplace investigations are essential for maintaining employees’ safe, fair, and respectful environment. When workplace issues such as misconduct or harassment arise, organizations must act promptly to address them. Understanding employee rights during HR investigations ensures a transparent and just process that complies with Ontario’s employment laws. Achkar Law, a top-rated law firm in Ontario, specializes…
Employers Legal Risks in 2025: Mass Layoffs, Pay Cuts, and Job Changes
In late 2024, the United States announced its intention to impose a 25% tariff on certain Canadian imports, with an implementation date of February 1, 2025. In response, Canada has also threatened retaliatory tariffs, creating further uncertainty for businesses that rely on cross-border trade. While the executive order was signed, ongoing negotiations between Canada and the…
The Fractional Employment Lawyer: Benefits for Your Organization
Employment laws and regulations in Ontario are constantly evolving, creating challenges for businesses and organizations striving to stay compliant. Failure to keep up with these changes can lead to costly disputes, penalties, and reputational damage.Without dedicated legal support, organizations may struggle to manage complex workplace issues, increasing the risk of non-compliance.A fractional employment lawyer offers…
Ontario Employment Standards Act, 2000: Explained
The Employment Standards Act, 2000 (ESA) governs provincially regulated, non-unionized workplaces in Ontario. It outlines fundamental rights and obligations related to work hours, wages, leaves, termination, and severance. Understanding these legal standards is crucial for both employers and employees to maintain compliance and protect their rights.This article will discuss key aspects of the Ontario Employment…
Changes for Federal and Ontario Workers in 2025
As we enter 2025, significant updates to labour regulations are coming into effect for federally regulated workers and those in Ontario. These changes aim to address wage fairness, transparency, and workplace conditions, impacting both employees and employers.Federal Minimum Wage IncreaseEffective April 1, 2025, the federal minimum wage will increase from $17.30 to $17.70 per hour.…