Changes To BC Employment Standards Act Will Protect Young Workers

Amendments to the Employment Standards Act in British Columbia (the "ESA") will come into force on October 15, 2021. The changes include raising the general working age in British Columbia from 12 to 16 years of age, and defining the types of jobs appropriate for those under the age of 16.

These changes will bring British Columbia in line with international standards for youth employment. Prior to these changes, British Columbia was the only province in Canada with a working age of 12. In some cases, this placed young workers in hazardous environments such as construction sites or heavy-industry settings. WorkSafeBC reported more than $1.1 million paid in job-related disability claims for workers 14 years of age or younger between 2007 and 2016. The Province plans to announce further regulatory changes later this year to define "hazardous work" for those between the ages of 16 to 18.