5 Ways That Canadian Labour Law Could Change In The Near Future
Canadian employment law is constantly evolving, and there are many potential changes on the horizon that could have a significant impact on both employers and employees.
Let’s explore five possible ways that Canadian employment law could change over the next few years, prompting employers and labour attorneys to take a new look at how they do things.
Increased Protections for Gig Workers
Gig workers are individuals who work on a freelance or contract basis, usually through platforms like Uber, Lyft, and AirBnb.
These workers are currently not entitled to the same protections as employees, such as minimum wage, benefits, and workplace safety regulations. However, as the industry has continued to grow for many years, there have been ongoing discussions about extending these protections to gig workers. That would have a major impact on the gig economy — and the companies that employ them.
Expanded Workplace Accommodation for Disabilities
The Canadian Human Rights Act requires employers to provide reasonable accommodation for employees with disabilities. H
However, there is ongoing debate about what constitutes "reasonable accommodation," and some advocates are pushing for a more expansive definition. This could mean that employers would be required to make more significant accommodations, such as modifying job duties or providing additional training, in order to accommodate employees with disabilities.
Greater Protection for Mental Health in the Workplace
Mental health is becoming a more important issue in the workplace, as well as a topic of national conversation across Canada.
As a result, there are ongoing efforts to improve protections for employees who suffer from mental illness. This could include changes to employment standards legislation to require employers to provide more support for employees with mental health issues, and an increase of awareness campaigns and training for managers and employees.
Increased Protections for Temporary Foreign Workers
Temporary foreign workers play an important role in many industries in Canada, but they are often vulnerable to exploitation and abuse.
There are ongoing efforts to improve protections for these workers, including increased inspections and penalties for employers who violate labour standards. It’s also possible there could be changes to the immigration system to make it easier for temporary foreign workers to obtain permanent residency and greater rights in the workplace.
Changes to Workplace Safety Regulations
Workplace safety is always a priority, and there are ongoing discussions about how to improve workplace safety regulations in Canada. This could include changes to the Canada Labour Code to require employers to conduct more thorough risk assessments. It also might result in the implementation of stronger safety protocols, or increased funding for workplace safety training and resources, for both employers and their workers.
To sum all that up, Canadian employment law will have to face the new realities of work. Employers and employees alike should stay up-to-date on these potential changes and be prepared to adapt as necessary to remain compliant with Canadian law.
