Right to Refuse Unsafe Work
In Ontario, workers have the right to refuse unsafe work under the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA):
A worker can refuse work if they believe it is dangerous to themselves or another worker. This includes if they believe the equipment, physical condition of the workplace, or workplace violence is dangerous.
Workers can refuse work by stating that they believe it is unsafe. They should also report the situation to their supervisor or employer and contact their health and safety representative or committee.
If the problem isn't fixed, the worker can continue to refuse work and a Ministry of Labor, Training and Skills Development (MLITSD) inspector will be called in to investigate.
Some workers, such as nurses, firefighters, and police officers, cannot refuse work if the danger is a normal part of their job or if refusing work would put someone else in danger.
- What "reasonable cause" means
"Reasonable cause" means that the worker truly believes that the work will cause themself, or someone else, harm.
I, the undersigned, acknowledge that I have read and understood my right to refuse unsafe work as outlined under the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA). I am aware of the procedure to follow should I encounter unsafe work conditions and understand that I can refuse work that I believe poses a risk to my health or safety.