Ontario has enacted its fifth Working for Workers Act, introducing a series of measures aimed at improving worker protections, supporting frontline staff, and encouraging more women to enter the skilled trades. The legislation received Royal Assent on Oct. 29.
“By strengthening supports for frontline heroes and cutting red tape, we’re helping more workers get better training for better jobs with bigger paycheques,” said David Piccini, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development, emphasized the government’s commitment to putting workers first.
Key changes
The new legislation includes several notable provisions:
Enhanced WSIB coverage for firefighters: The required duration of service for firefighters, investigators, and volunteers to be eligible for presumptive Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) coverage for primary-site skin cancer has been reduced from 20 years to 10 years. Additionally, wildland firefighters and investigators will now have the same coverage for occupational cancers, heart injuries, and post-traumatic stress disorder as municipal firefighters.Greg Horton, president of the Ontario Professional Fire Fighters Association, welcomed the change. “Today we celebrate the passing of legislation that reduces the required duration of service for skin cancers, allowing firefighters to be covered after ten years of service,” he said. “This puts them and their families in a better position during difficult times.”
Support for women in trades: To encourage more women to pursue careers in the skilled trades, the act mandates that menstrual products be made available on larger construction sites. It also introduces measures to crack down on virtual harassment and requires all workplaces to maintain clean and sanitary washrooms with records of cleaning—a first-in-Canada initiative. Marc Arsenault, business manager and secretary-treasurer of the Provincial Building and Construction Trades Council of Ontario, expressed support for the measures. “We will continue to work with the government to improve the construction industry and the health and safety of Ontario’s skilled trades workforce,” he said. “Enhanced washroom regulations as outlined in the bill include flush toilets, hand-washing facilities, and clean, sanitary washrooms on all construction sites.”
Stronger enforcement against non-compliant employers: The act increases the maximum fines for individuals convicted of violating the Employment Standards Act, aiming to deter bad actors and protect workers’ rights. Andrew Pariser, vice president of the Residential Construction Council of Ontario, highlighted the importance of this move. “By focusing on health and safety, workers’ rights, and worker protections, Ontario is investing in its workers and economy,” he said.
Improved fairness in hiring practices: Employers are now required to disclose whether a job vacancy truly exists in publicly advertised postings and must respond to interviewees within a specified period. This change aims to enhance transparency and fairness for jobseekers.Guled Warsame, president of UNITE HERE Local 75, supported the initiative. “The bill brings improvements and protections for Ontario’s workers and job seekers and breaks down barriers for a safe and inclusive workforce,” he said.
Elimination of sick notes for short-term leave: To reduce administrative burdens on healthcare providers and patients, employers can no longer request sick notes as evidence for entitlement to the three job-protected unpaid sick-leave days.Dr. Dominik Nowak, president of the Ontario Medical Association, applauded the change. “This important step reduces administrative burden, freeing doctors to focus on patient care and easing the strain on the health-care system,” he said. “We look forward to collaborating with the minister to streamline processes that improve health-care delivery and access for all Ontarians.”
Stakeholder reactions
The passage of the act garnered positive reactions from various sectors:
EllisDon: Steve Chaplin, senior vice president of health, safety, and environment at EllisDon, emphasized the company’s commitment to worker safety. “With the Working for Workers Five Act reaching Royal Assent, it shows the community our dedication to a positive and inclusive work environment,” he said. “We will continue to build a brighter, stronger future where workers are free from harassment and go home safely to their family every day.”
United Association Local 787: Andrew Tarr, business manager of UA Local 787, praised the government’s efforts. “This bill builds on the government’s commitment to improve working conditions for Ontario’s workers,” he said. “Through innovative policies, this government continues to show it is making Ontario the best place to put down roots and work in the world.”
Civiconnect: Nour Hage, president and CEO of Civiconnect, highlighted the legislation’s impact on business development and family growth. “This legislation significantly improves workplace conditions and expands access to skilled trades opportunities while protecting Ontario’s workforce,” she said. “We are proud to back a government that prioritizes the needs of Ontario’s workers.”
Edge Factor: Jeremy Bout, president and founder of Edge Factor, acknowledged the government’s focus on skilled trades. “We are honoured to partner with this government as they continue to find ways to elevate the quality of workplaces for workers and ensure there are meaningful paths to access the skilled trades,” he said.
Next steps for employers
Employers across Ontario are encouraged to review the new regulations to ensure compliance. The government underscores that these measures are designed not only to protect workers but also to foster economic growth by investing in a skilled and supported workforce.
“By putting workers first, we can and will bring the Ontario dream within reach of more people,” Minister Piccini said. “These changes expand on groundbreaking measures included in our four previous Working for Workers Acts since 2021, which are already helping millions of people.”
Background
Since 2021, Ontario has introduced five Working for Workers Acts, each building on the last to modernize labour laws and adapt to the evolving workforce landscape. The cumulative efforts aim to make Ontario a leader in worker protections and a hub for talent retention and attraction.
