More workers in Alberta and across Canada are learning about their rights in the workplace. Discrimination based on race, gender, culture, colour, ethnic origin, nationality, age, religion, disability, marital status, sexual orientation or pregnancy is against the law. Furthermore, membership in a trade union or union activities may not be held against employees. Discrimination is a violation of employment and human rights laws.
Typical areas of employment discrimination include staff recruitment and selection for work assignments. Violations could also be present in the benefits, terms and conditions of employment. Moreover, the type of training and who receives it could involve discrimination, as could considerations or selection of personnel for promotion, transfer, dismissal, retrenchment and disciplinary action.
Workers are entitled to file complaints against employers if they believe they are victims of discrimination. The consequences for the employer found responsible for such violations may include significant penalties. Besides, bad publicity, low employee morale and high employee turnover could further damage the productivity of the company and, ultimately, its bottom line.
Some business owners in Alberta rely on a lawyer with experience in all aspects of business and employment laws. With legal counsel’s guidance during recruitment, hiring and in the workplace, business owners can avoid most accusations and complaints involving discrimination. Similarly, workers in Alberta who believe they are victims of discrimination have the right to seek legal counsel. A layer can provide guidance with the filing of complaints against employers, either through mediation or through the filing of a legal complaint.
