Temporary Layoff Rights – What Are You Owed?
Temporary layoff is not the same as termination of employment. Temporary layoff may be for up to 13 weeks and often relates to a shortage of work. A “week of layoff” is a week in which you are paid less…
BC Enacts Job Protection COVID-19 Affected Employees
On March 23, 2020, new job protections were added for employees in BC who are ill or injured or who are unable to work due to COVID-19. Bill 16, which amends the Employment Standards Act, provides mandatory unpaid leave entitlements…
‘Heat of the moment’ resignations do not always end the employment
Employers must be wary when an employee suddenly resigns in the heat of the moment. In certain circumstances, an employer may be obliged to follow up with the employee or allow a cooling-off period to ensure that the resignation is…
Can a potential employer “reference check” your social media?
Employee rights to protection of personal information Many British Columbians are active on social media, leaving personal information online for the public to view. When you apply for a job, it can be tempting for the employer to add “social…
Weak Job Market Supports Longer Notice Periods
A weak job market is a factor that can justify a longer notice period for wrongfully dismissed employees. This is because the availability of similar employment – or a lack thereof – is a factor that courts take into consideration…
Employers Must Keep Track of Hours Worked by Employees
Employers need to be aware that they are required to maintain a log of all hours worked for every employee who is protected by the BC Employment Standards Act. Failure to do so may result in liability to the employer. This…