The Ministry of Labour ("MOL") has announced its annual blitz inspections to enhance compliance and raise awareness of employers' responsibilities. These inspections highlight the importance of protecting workers' rights under both the Occupational Health and Safety Act and the Employment Standards Act, 2000. The MOL seeks to ensure compliance with employment and health and safety standards in "high risk" sectors, and those in which the majority of Ontarians are employed. The Spring and Summer blitzes focus, in particular, on market sectors where there is a history of employment standards violation and where vulnerable workers, being those who are young or new to the labour market, are employed. Inspectors will be seeking information from employers on all matters of compliance with occupational health and safety, as well as employment standards.
For 2013, the Ministry will be visiting employers in these sectors:
- salons, spas, nail salons
- manufacturing and distribution
- restaurants, including fast food restaurants
- construction sites
- farming
- industrial establishments
- recreation centres – including gyms, pools and bowling alleys
- health care
- retirement homes and long-term care facilities
Employers in any industry or sector, and of any size, can expect a higher level of random visits by employment standards officers beginning in May. If violations are found, officers may issue a range of compliance tools up to and including orders to pay and prosecutions. This year's full blitz schedule for both occupational health and safety and employment standards has been published by the MOL. In addition, the MOL will conduct various local employment standards blitzes throughout the year.
We encourage our clients to take this opportunity to review your records and compliance.
The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.
