B.C. Labour Code
When it comes to the labour code in British Columbia, there are numerous employment laws that apply. The B.C. Employment Standards Act (ESA) regulates employees who do not belong to a union. Whereas, the B.C. Labour Relations Code (LRC) governs the relationship between employers and employees who are represented by a union. The B.C. Labour Relations Board administers the unionization of workplaces.
As an employer, it is important to understand both the ESA and LRC as they apply to your business operations.
What is the Labour Relations Code?
The LRC is the provincial legislation that governs relations between employers, unions and employees in British Columbia. Accordingly, the Code applies to establishing a union representation, collective bargaining, and all related matters to a unionized workplace.
In addition, the LRC establishes the B.C. Labour Relations Board (the “Board”), an independent and administrative tribunal. Its mandate is to mediate and settle employment and labour relations matters involving employers, unions, and their employees. The Board has the authority to administer the Code’s provisions.
What is the Employment Standards Act?
The ESA is the provincial legislation that sets the minimum workplace standards. Further, the Employment Standards Branch of the Ministry of Labour administers the Act. This applies to most employers and all non-union employees, regardless of employment status. With this, employers who fail to comply with the Act are subject to administrative and/or monetary penalties.
Is your business compliant?
Have you taken the proper steps to ensure your business is compliant with the province’s labour laws? As an employer, you are responsible for keeping up-to-date on the Employment Standards Act and the Labour Relations Code.
Call our free HR advice line today with questions about British Columbia’s labour laws. Employer Line can help: 1 (833) 247-3650.