COVID-19 And An Employee's Right To Refuse Work

Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, Canadian employees are increasingly exercising their right to refuse work. The threat of contracting the virus and potentially passing it on to family members explains this growing trend.

In this context, we wish to advise employers on the extent and limitations of employees' right to refuse to work. Here are some key considerations surrounding an employee's right to refuse to work in the provinces of Québec, Ontario, Alberta and British Columbia.

When can an employee refuse to work?

Generally, the law provides that employees have the right to refuse to work when they feel that their health could be compromised by going to work or performing a task throughout the course of their work.