Employers able to get updated info online about new legislation that comes into effect June 1
The Alberta government is introducing three new rules on June 1 to protect workers' rights and health and safety.
The rules are: the right to know potential hazards, the right to refuse dangerous work and the right to participate in their health and safety. These rules are also intended to combat workplace violence and harassment in all forms, and to provide other protective measures.
"Every worker has the right to a safe, healthy workplace. These new laws bring Alberta into the 21st century and align with the protections other Canadian workers already have," said the province's minister of labour, Christina Gray.
An employer-focused, online advertising campaign launched on April 16 to raise awareness of the changes, and will run through the summer. Additionally, there is an online review of occupational health and safety changes made through the province's official website.
"Our government is providing employers with information and support so they can successfully implement these much-needed changes," she said.
This spring, the government consulted with employers, workers' advocates and Albertans on specific rules regarding harassment and violence, as well as the operation of joint work site health and safety committees. The consultation concluded on April 9. An Order in Council that was signed April 23 spells out those details.
Changes to Alberta's workplace health and safety laws were passed late last year.
