New Workers

You are considered a new worker in Ontario if:

• You recently moved to Ontario from another province or country;
• You just started a first job; or
• You are returning to the workforce after a long absence.

If you're starting out in the Ontario workforce, this page will give you access to information about how Ontario protects a worker’s health and safety and provides employment rights.

Most workers, but not everyone, are covered under Ontario’s workplace laws. It depends on where you’re working, your type of employer and the type of work you’re doing. You may be covered by Ontario laws, or by federal Government of Canada laws.

Are you covered by the Occupational Health and Safety Act?

Are you covered by the Employment Standards Act, 2000?

What Are Your Rights And Responsibilities?

Ontario laws provide that employers must ensure that you have a healthy and safe workplace. Most employees covered by the Employment Standards Act, 2000 are to be paid at least the general minimum wage and are allowed basic entitlements such as holidays and vacation. Know your rights at work so you can be sure that you are treated fairly and that you can stay safe and healthy.

Workers have responsibilities too. For instance, workers are expected to follow the safety rules in a workplace and must report hazards to their supervisor.

Resources

Health & Safety

• Are You Ready for Work?
• FAQs: Health and Safety
• A Guide to the Occupational Health and Safety Act
• Beware Heat Stress

Employment Standards

• Your Rights at Work
• FAQs: Employment Standards
• Your Guide to the Employment Standards Act, 2000

Additional Information For Young Workers

Some new workers are young workers. The Ministry of Labour has a number of resources specifically for young workers:

• Protecting Our Future: Information For Young Workers
• WorkSmartOntario: Health and Safety
• WorkSmartOntario: Employment Standards