DCSIMG

Employment Standards

Fairness in the workplace is the right of all Ontarians.

Employment standards are enforced under the Employment Standards Act, 2000 (ESA), which sets out the minimum standards that employers and employees must follow.

The Ministry of Labour, through its Employment Standards Program:

  • enforces the ESA and its regulations
  • provides information and education to employers and employees, making it easier for people to understand and comply voluntarily
  • investigates possible violations
  • resolves complaints

If you are employed in Ontario, you are probably protected by the ESA. To find out more, check out our General Information Fact Sheet.

Spotlight

Your Rights @ Work

Your Rights at Work

First job? New job? Our new tip sheet explains basic Employment Standards from minimum wage to public holidays.

Hours of Work and Overtime Tool

Hours of Work and Overtime Tool

Is your workplace complying with Ontario’s hours of work and overtime rules?

Podcast

Podcast

Listen to this week’s podcast:

Employing Domestic Workers

Special Rule Tool

Special Rule Tool

Learn if you are in an industry or occupation covered by a special employment standards rule.

Did You Know...

Monday, May 21st is Victoria Day. Victoria Day is a Public Holiday in Ontario.

Most employees who qualify are entitled to take this day off work and be paid public holiday pay.

Public Holidays and Calculator

  • New Year's Day: January 1, 2012
  • Family Day: February 20, 2012
  • Good Friday: April 6, 2012
  • Victoria Day: May 21, 2012
  • Canada Day: July 2, 2012
  • Labour Day: September 3, 2012
  • Thanksgiving Day: October 8, 2012
  • Christmas Day: December 25, 2012
  • Boxing Day: December 26, 2012

Learn more about public holidays or calculate your public holiday pay.