Labour Laws Advice for B.C. Employers. Ask us about the B.C. Labour Relations Code.

In British Columbia, there are numerous labour laws that apply to the workplace. The B.C. Employment Standards Act (ESA) regulates employees who do not belong to a union. Meanwhile, the B.C. Labour Relations Code (LRC) governs the relationship between employers and their employees who are represented by a union. Additionally, disputes between employers and unions are heard before the B.C. Labour Relations Board.

As an employer, it is important to understand both the ESA and LRC and how they apply to your business.

What is the Labour Relations Code?

The LRC is the provincial legislation that governs relations between employers, unions and employees in British Columbia. It addresses the establishment of union representation, collective bargaining, and all matters related to unionized workplaces.

The LRC’s provisions are litigated at the B.C. Labour Relations Board (the “Board”), which is an independent, administrative tribunal. Its mandate is to settle and decide employment and labour relations matters involving employers, unions and employees.

What is the Employment Standards Act?

The ESA is administered by the Ministry of Labour and is the provincial legislation that sets the minimum employment standards for the workplace. It applies to most employers and non-union employees, regardless of their employment status. Employers who fail to comply with the ESA are subject to administrative and/or monetary penalties.

Is your business compliant with B.C.’s Labour laws?

Have you taken the appropriate steps to ensure that your business is operating according to the province’s labour laws? Whether it’s the Employment Standards Act or the Labour Relations Code, you have duties to your workers as an employer.

Call our free HR advice line. If you have questions about British Columbia’s labour laws, we can help: 1-888-219-8767