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If an employee contracts COVID-19 while at work, it would likely be considered a work-related injury which would be covered by the Workers Compensation Act and administered through WorkSafeBC. The nature of COVID-19 and the fact that symptoms may not develop for a considerable period may make it difficult to assess whether the employee was…

In these unprecedented times, many employers are faced with unexpected closures of rapid downturns in business that unfortunately requires a decision to lay off or terminate employees. Employers can find other articles on the means and process of termination on our website here. This article will explore the risks and requirements of employers facing the…

Some employees who have been travelling back to Canada from abroad, including the United States are required to self-quarantine for a period of 14 days under mandate from the federal government. Other employees, who have travelled recently from Italy, certain Chinese provinces and Iran are required to not only self-quarantine, but also required to report…

Like in most employment law contexts, the answer depends. Some employees are unable to refuse to work on health and safety grounds like a pandemic such as COVID-19 – these employees include firefighters, police, hospital and long-term health care workers as their employment is inherently dangerous and required to deal with such risk. Other employees…

The recent worldwide COVID-19 pandemic is affecting businesses everywhere. Whether it is mandatory or recommended closures, limited hours, skeleton staffing, or temporary or indefinite layoffs – everyone is, or will be, impacted by the COVID-19 outbreak. The various rights and obligations of employers and employees alike remain in full force and are not deferred from…