Myth or fact?
- Myth
- Fact
The main provincial law that protects workers in British Columbia is called the Employment Standards Act. It sets minimum standards for wages and working conditions. However, some workers are excluded from the protection of this law, or parts of it. Your rights in the workplace and your options to deal with problems depend on whether or not you’re covered. Learn if you’re protected under BC’s employment standards law.
What you should know
Most workers are covered
Exception if you work as an independent contractor
Exception if you work in a federally-regulated workplace
Exception if you work in certain licensed professions
Exception if you’re a student or a babysitter
Exception if you’re enrolled in certain government incentive programs
If you’re a member of a union
If you work in an occupation that’s partially excluded from the Act
If you’re a manager
If you’re not covered
Just because you’re not covered by the Employment Standards Act doesn’t mean you have no rights as a worker. Other laws apply to those who are excluded from the Act. For example, human rights laws protect all workers from discrimination.
If you feel your rights have been violated at work, seeking legal advice can help. It’s a way to better understand which laws apply to you and what your options are to resolve your dispute. There are options for free or low-cost legal advice.