Social media in the workplace: What is appropriate?
Finding someone who doesn't use social media would be very difficult. We use the various platforms for everything from networking and getting news to keeping up with our family and friends. Even businesses regularly utilize social media to find new clients and advertise new products. Considering how ubiquitous social media is, savvy employers and employees should understand how to address the appropriate use of these platforms in the workplace.
Federal government tables anti-replacement worker legislation
When union employees go on strike, they typically do so because they are seeking better pay, benefits or work conditions. By not working, they put pressure on employers to negotiate or meet their demands. However, some employers respond to strikes by hiring replacement workers in an attempt to reduce the impact of the strike on business.
Reasonable accommodations for pregnant employees
Workers who are or become pregnant have specific rights and legal protections on the job. Unfortunately, too many employers still unfairly fire or deny them reasonable accommodations. These actions create considerable financial and professional complications; they could also endanger the safety of the woman and her unborn child.
3 questions to answer before agreeing to a non-compete clause
If you work in certain industries or roles, you may be presented with an employment agreement containing non-compete clauses or other restrictive covenants. Before you accept a role or sign anything, you should ask yourself some important questions regarding these restrictions.
Collecting statutory termination pay: 3 things every employee should know
Losing a job takes a serious toll on an employee's life. Severance pay can alleviate the economic and personal blow of this situation, so employees in British Columbia must understand what they can expect if they lose their jobs.
Drug and alcohol testing: What employees should know
You can feel a great sense of accomplishment when you get a new job or promotion. Unfortunately, this could all be in jeopardy if your employer requires a drug or alcohol test and you do not successfully pass such tests. Drug and alcohol testing is controversial for a few reasons and require a careful balancing of employees’ human rights and privacy rights with the employer’s legal obligation to maintain a safe workplace.
5 mistakes employers make when addressing employee absenteeism
Everyone occasionally misses work, whether for a scheduled vacation or an unexpected medical event. Whether being away from work is stressful or relaxing, it typically isn't cause for concern. However, absences can add up quickly, and in some cases, employers must take action if absenteeism becomes a problem.
How can companies make work safer for gig workers?
Gig work is an increasingly significant part of Canada's economy, and the tens of thousands of people who work in these jobs are a crucial element of the workforce. However, these individuals don't have the same protections as Canadian employees protected under federal and provincial laws. For example, they do not have as much job security compared to other employees. In addition, gig workers face a number of workplace accidents.
5 record keeping violations that compromise employees' rights
Employment disputes often come down to what parties have on record. Everything from notes during an interview to performance reviews and termination notices can come under scrutiny when employees and employers are in conflict, so comprehensive, accurate record-keeping is vital.
Red flags to watch for and avoid when it comes to hiring
Any time businesses welcome a new worker, it can change the workplace. Whether this change is for the better or worse can depend on the hiring process and how employers decide who to hire. To make this process go smoothly, watching for and avoiding certain words in job listings and interviews is essential.
3 ways employers might cover up unlawful actions
Employers who breach their legal obligations toward their employees may create messy disputes, for which they may face serious consequences. Because of this, some employers may attempt to cover up what they are doing to avoid getting in trouble. Understanding the tactics that employers may use to draw attention away from their misdeeds can help employees determine the right course of action in addressing a workplace issue.
What is disparate impact in layoffs?
Laying off workers can be a tough decision for businesses, but there are proper and improper ways to conduct them. If an employer makes poor decisions and violates the rights of those they are laying off, they can be held accountable. One mistake too many companies make is discriminating against workers in their layoffs.
3 legal complications of remote working arrangements
For many employees, the option of working from home full-time or in a hybrid environment is highly appealing. Nonetheless, it presents difficulties for employers that may result in legal complications and disputes. We explore some of these potential issues below.
4 ways employers violate employees' privacy
The right to privacy is something that Canadians take very seriously - it is a fundamental right. This includes privacy in the workplace. We have strict laws to protect both employers and employees regarding privacy, but some employers make mistakes or poor judgements that lead to a claim they violated someone's privacy and the law.
Tackling unconscious bias in the workplace
Unconscious biases, also known as implicit biases, are underlying assumptions, beliefs, or stereotypes that we hold against other people or groups of people that impact our behaviours. Unconscious biases are often developed through our own experiences, perceptions, and societal influences. Unconscious bias in the workplace may result in adverse treatment to employees that can lead to legal claims and disputes.
Common workplace hazards to beware of this season
Workplace accidents and injuries can happen anytime, during any season. However, some conditions are more likely to present a danger to workers during certain times of the year. With that in mind, workers may want to prepare for certain spring-related factors that could create risks on the job.
What is a 'failure to mitigate' in wrongful dismissal actions?
Losing your job unexpectedly can be incredibly upsetting. You can feel angry, confused and lost. However, what you do or don't do in the days and weeks following a termination can be incredibly important if you decide to pursue legal action citing wrongful dismissal. For instance, any damages you might receive could be reduced if there is evidence that you failed to mitigate your losses.
Employee handbook red flags to be aware of
When you start a new job, you have much to learn about your new role and workplace. One of the most helpful resources employers can provide is an employee handbook detailing the policies and guidelines of the company. However, there are some red flags to watch for when (and if) you receive one.
Types of reasonable accommodations employees may request
Employees with medical conditions and disabilities can perform their jobs as well as anyone else, but they may need accommodations. As an employer in Canada, you have a duty to provide these accommodations under many circumstances, so it can help to know what these might look like.
What types of work accidents are the most common?
Every occupation comes with some injury risk, whether someone sits behind a desk or works in a safety-sensitive work environment. No matter where a work-related accident happens, it can have a tremendous impact on workers and their families. Below, we look at some occupational injury statistics that can help employers and employees appreciate the importance of prioritizing safety in every workspace.