What is the primary objective of the Employment Standards Act?

The primary objective of the Employment Standards Act is to set minimum standards for workers' rights and conditions. This legislation establishes a framework designed to ensure fair treatment of employees in the workplace by specifying various rights and conditions such as minimum wage, overtime pay, working hours, and leave entitlements. By establishing these minimum standards, the Act aims to protect workers and create a baseline that employers must adhere to, promoting fairness and equity in the employment relationship.

This focus on minimum standards helps to ensure that all employees, regardless of their position or the size of the employer, have fundamental rights that cannot be waived or disregarded. This foundation is crucial for fostering a safe and healthy work environment, reducing exploitation, and establishing a level playing field in the labor market.