Don’t Wait for a Ministry of Labour Inspector’s Visit in Your Workplace

, by Stephanie Messier | Dealing with Difficult Employees|Work Environment and Policies

In recent years, the Ministry of Labour has conducted numerous inspections, with common violations including:

- Public Holidays

- Overtime Pay

- Minimum Wage

- Unpaid Wages

- Vacation Pay

Below is an Employer Compliance Checklist you can use proactively to ensure your organization is covered:

Core Standards Compliance:

1. Posting Requirements: Display the “What You Should Know About the Ontario Employment Standards Act” poster in a visible location.

2. Wage Statements: Provide accurate and timely wage statements to all employees.

3. Unauthorized Deductions: Ensure no unauthorized deductions are made from employee wages.

4. Record-Keeping: Maintain accurate records, including timesheets and payroll documentation.

5. Hours of Work: Adhere to regulations regarding work schedules and hours.

6. Eating Periods: Ensure employees receive appropriate eating periods as required by law.

7. Overtime Pay: Comply with overtime pay requirements and ensure proper compensation.

8. Minimum Wage: Pay employees at least the minimum wage as law mandates.

9. Public Holidays: Follow public holiday pay and time off rules.

10. Vacation Pay: Ensure proper vacation pay is calculated and provided to employees.

11. Temporary Help Agencies: Comply with regulations regarding fees and information provision for temporary help agencies.

Additional Policies to Implement:

12. Bill 168 – Workplace Violence and Harassment Policy and employee training.

13. Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) – Customer Service Standard Policy

14. Ontario Hours of Work Policy with signed agreements with employees eligible for overtime pay regarding their hours of work, including overtime and time off in lieu of overtime pay.

By following this checklist, employers can ensure compliance with the Ontario Employment Standards Act and maintain good employer practices.