Over the past several months, the Ontario Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development (MLITSD) has significantly changed the penalties for employers and supervisors. These modifications touch on several topics including the handling of foreign nationals and job safety. They are defined in the Working for Workers 3 legislation and intended to improve workplace safety and worker rights protection in Ontario.
Increased Fines for Corporations Under OHSA
The Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA)’s maximum punishment for enterprises will increase from $1.5 million to $2 million. As a result, Ontario has the harshest fines in Canada for businesses that violate OHSA laws. These hefty fines aim to deter risky activities and promote worker safety.
Fines for Corporate Directors
If found guilty of OHSA infractions, individual company directors will also be subject to steep fines, with a $1.5 million maximum penalty. This highlights the leadership’s responsibility for maintaining workplace safety.
Fines for Employers Withholding Passports
The proposed reforms would subject Canadian firms found guilty of denying work permits or passports to foreign employees to the maximum penalty possible. For each worker whose rights are infringed, employers that use such tactics risk paying fines ranging from $100,000 to $200,000. Additionally, anyone found guilty of concealing passports risks hefty fines of up to $500,000, up to 12 months in jail, or both.
Organizational Offences
Companies found guilty of denying passports to foreign nationals risk fines of up to $1 million. This highlights the gravity of this infraction and acts as a deterrence to businesses that engage in such behaviour.
These legislative amendments show the Ontario government’s dedication to establishing a secure and equitable workplace for all, including foreign nationals who could fall prey to exploitation. The message is loud and clear: disregarding employee rights and safety at work will have serious financial repercussions for both people and businesses.
Auspice Safety – Safety Services for Public & Private Sectors
These suggested legal amendments convey a clear message: Ontario is committed to providing secure, equitable, and just workplaces for all. The government is adopting a proactive approach to tackling workplace safety and defending the rights of workers by drastically raising fines and penalties. By taking these steps, Ontario is demonstrating its leadership in securing a better and safer future for its workers and reaffirming its dedication to employee wellbeing.
Are you prepared to give compliance and safety first priority at work? Please contact us at Auspice Safety to assist you in navigating Ontario’s ever-evolving workplace safety rules. The safety of your employees and avoiding costly fines are crucial in light of the latest legislation developments. Invest in safety immediately to safeguard your employees and maintain legal compliance. To work together to make your workplace safer, more compliant, and more productive, get in touch with us.