OIT Workplace Relations and Labor Standards Flashcards

What is the role of a union steward in an Ontario industrial workplace?

Answer: To represent workers in grievances and ensure the collective agreement is followed

A union steward is a frontline union representative who helps workers understand their rights, files grievances, and acts as a liaison between workers and union leadership.

Under the Ontario ESA, what is a worker entitled to when they are required to be on-call but do not receive any work?

Answer: A minimum of three hours pay at their regular rate

Ontario's three-hour rule ensures a worker who reports to work or is on-call and receives less than three hours of work must still be paid a minimum of three hours at their regular wage.

In Ontario, what is 'premium pay' (overtime pay) under the ESA?

Answer: 1.5 times the employee's regular rate for hours worked over 44 hours per week

Ontario's ESA requires employers to pay overtime at 1.5 times (time-and-a-half) the regular hourly rate for each hour worked beyond 44 hours in a work week.

What must an Ontario employer provide to a new worker upon hiring under ESA information requirements?

Answer: A written notice of the worker's rights under the ESA (ESA Poster)

Ontario employers are required to post and provide all new employees with the ESA Poster, which summarizes key employment rights under the Employment Standards Act.

What does 'reprisal' mean in the context of Ontario workplace safety law?

Answer: Punishing or threatening a worker for exercising their rights under OHSA, such as refusing unsafe work

Reprisal is any action taken by an employer against a worker because the worker exercised a right under OHSA, such as reporting a hazard or refusing unsafe work, and is prohibited by law.

Which Ontario body handles complaints about unfair labor practices and the certification of unions?

Answer: Ontario Labour Relations Board (OLRB)

The Ontario Labour Relations Board (OLRB) is the adjudicative body that certifies unions, resolves unfair labor practice complaints, and administers Ontario's Labor Relations Act.