Ontario Tough New Safety Laws: $500K Minimum Fine for Repeat Violations and Expanded Protections for Workers

Ontario Tough New Safety Laws: $500K Minimum Fine for Repeat Violations and Expanded Protections for Workers

Ontario is taking a strong stance on workplace safety and labour rights with a new bill that introduces significant penalties for serious health and safety violations while expanding protections for vulnerable workers. Labour Minister David Piccini announced the wide-ranging legislation on Wednesday, highlighting its focus on preventing workplace fatalities and safeguarding worker rights across various sectors.



Mandatory Minimum Fine for Repeat Offenders

The centerpiece of the legislation is a mandatory minimum fine of $500,000 for employers convicted of multiple serious health and safety violations.

Employers found guilty of more than one violation of the Occupational Health and Safety Act that results in serious injury or death within a two-year period will face this steep penalty. According to Piccini, these changes mark the toughest mandatory minimum fines for health and safety violations in Canada.

“A fatality cannot be the cost of doing business,” said Piccini, stressing the urgency of stronger deterrents following multiple fatal workplace incidents.


Enhanced Protections for Vulnerable Workers

The proposed bill addresses several pressing safety and equity concerns:

1. Improved Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

A requirement for properly fitting personal protective equipment for women in construction will be expanded to include all sectors. This move ensures equitable safety measures for workers across industries.

2. Roadside Safety for Construction Workers

Drivers will now be required to move over for roadside construction vehicles with amber lights flashing, similar to the rules for emergency vehicles. This provision aims to protect workers like Julie Henry, a patrol supervisor who suffered life-threatening injuries after being struck by a vehicle while setting up lane closures on Highway 400.

“These measures are vital to ensuring that no family or workplace has to endure the kind of hardship and uncertainty that mine has faced,” Henry said, sharing the emotional toll of her accident.


Support for Firefighters and New Parents

The legislation also includes provisions to support specific groups of workers:

  • Expanded Cancer Coverage for Firefighters: The bill broadens the types of cancers covered under workplace injury claims for firefighters, ensuring timely compensation and support.
  • Job-Protected Leave for Adoptive and Surrogate Parents: Parents who welcome children through adoption or surrogacy will now be entitled to job-protected leave, offering them financial and emotional security during a critical period.

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Crackdown on Immigration Fraud

The bill takes aim at immigration fraud, empowering the province to set standards for representatives assisting with Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program applications. Penalties will be instituted for individuals or organizations violating these standards, ensuring fairness and transparency in the immigration process.


A Step Forward in Worker Safety and Equity

Ontario’s new legislation underscores the province’s commitment to prioritizing worker safety, equity, and accountability. With steep fines, improved safety measures, and expanded worker protections, the government aims to foster a safer and more equitable environment for all.

The proposed changes reflect a broader effort to prevent tragedies and support those who contribute to Ontario’s economy. As Piccini emphasized, “One fatality is one too many.”


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About Sophie Wilson 715 Articles
Sophie Wilson is a finance professional with a strong academic background, having studied at the University of Toronto. Her expertise in finance is complemented by a solid foundation in analytical and strategic thinking, making her a valuable asset in the financial sector.

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