Highlights of the Employment Standards Act Ontario (ESA)

This set of flashcards covers key terms and concepts related to the Employment Standards Act in Ontario, providing definitions necessary for understanding employment rights and responsibilities.

Employment Standards Act (ESA)

A provincial law that establishes minimum standards for employment contracts and ensures fairness in workplace practices.

Jurisdiction of the ESA

Covers most employees in Ontario, excluding federal employees and specific groups like police officers and co-op students.

Overtime pay

Compensation at one and a half times regular pay for hours worked over 44 in a week, which cannot be waived by employees.

Basic Sick Leave Entitlement

Employees are entitled to 3 unpaid sick days per year, available to all employees after 2 consecutive weeks of employment.

Vacation Time

Employees earn a minimum of 2 weeks of unpaid vacation time after 12 months of employment.

Public Holidays

Nine statutory holidays recognized, with eligibility for paid leave requiring work attendance before or after the holiday.

Pregnancy Leave

Up to 17 weeks of unpaid leave available to pregnant employees, starting as early as 17 weeks before due date.

Parental Leave

Up to 61 weeks of leave available to parents after childbirth or adoption, must start no later than 78 weeks after the event.

Termination and Notice

Employers must provide notice or pay in lieu upon termination, with minimum periods based on length of employment.

Severance Pay

May be required for employees with five or more years of service in cases of termination, particularly during mass layoffs.