FOR EMPLOYEES
Occupational Health & Safety Lawyers Toronto
Injured or Unsafe at Work? Speak with a Toronto Occupational Health & Safety Lawyer Today
Under Ontario’s Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA), workers have enforceable rights, like to refuse unsafe work, receive hazard training, and be protected from workplace dangers. At Greenwood Law, our occupational health & safety lawyers help employees assert their rights, navigate Ministry of Labour disputes, and pursue compensation when safety regulations are violated.
Meet the People on Your Team
Our Toronto employment lawyers specialize in occupational health and safety matters for employees. We combine legal knowledge with practical support to assist clients facing unsafe conditions, refusal to work incidents, or reprisal for safety complaints. We guide you through each step, documenting hazards, communicating with employers, and protecting your rights under OHSA.
What Rights Do I Have Under OHSA?
Employers must provide information, supervision, training, safety equipment, and effective reporting mechanisms. Under OHSA, employees in Toronto are entitled to:
- Right to know about workplace hazards and receive proper training
- Right to participate via health and safety committees or representatives
- Right to refuse unsafe work if you believe it poses danger to you or others
What Should Employers Do to Protect My Rights?
Your employer must:
- Identify and address workplace hazards
- Maintain WHMIS compliance with labels, training, and control procedures
- Implement and enforce safety policies, including anti-violence and harassment measures
- Provide personal protective equipment at no cost
- Support joint health and safety committees or representatives
- Investigate refusals to work and any reprisals promptly
Failure to comply may result in inspections, orders from MOL, or legal action.
Can I Refuse Unsafe Work and Still Keep My Job?
Yes, if you have reasonable grounds, you can refuse work without risk of discipline . Your employer and supervisor must investigate promptly and inform you of results. If they fail, you can escalate to the Ministry of Labour. Retaliation for refusals is also illegal and may trigger compensation or reinstatement claims.
What Happens If I’m Injured or Become Ill at Work?
Workplace incidents should be reported to your supervisor and WSIB within six months of the injury or illness. You may be entitled to wage replacement, medical benefits, and rehabilitation. Our lawyers assist in filing claims, addressing refusals, and enforcing your rights under WSIA and OHSA.
Hear From Our Clients
Helping Clients Get Back to Work
Our employment lawyers in Toronto are ready to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.
Table of Contents
Hear From Our Clients
Helping Clients Get Back to Work
Our employment lawyers in Toronto are ready to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.
Why Chooose Greenwood Law - Toronto Employment Lawyers
Our legal team focuses on tailored strategies that reflect the unique details of your case, not cookie, cutter solutions.
OHS specialization with local focus
Deep knowledge of OHSA as applied to Toronto workplaces
Experienced in refusals and reprisal protection
We defend your right to stop unsafe work
Support with WSIB processes
Claim filing, appeals and navigating WSIB decisions
Clear communication and client-first support
We keep you informed, protected, and respected
Occupational Health & Safety Lawyer in Toronto Frequently Asked Questions
What counts as a valid refusal to work?
A refusal is valid if you have reasonable grounds to believe a condition at work poses serious danger under OHSA. Raise concerns with your supervisor and document all details.
Do health and safety committees apply to my workplace?
Yes,employers with 20+ workers must establish joint health and safety committees; workplaces with 5–19 must have a representative.
How soon must a refusal incident be investigated?
Investigations should occur promptly, often the same day. This includes reviewing your concerns and deciding whether to permit safe work.
What is WSIB and how does it affect me?
WSIB is Ontario’s workers’ compensation board. It provides benefits like wage loss, medical care, and rehabilitation. If your claim is disputed, legal representation may be crucial.
Can I be fired for reporting safety issues?
No, OHSA explicitly prohibits workplace reprisals for safety complaints or refusals. If you’re punished, you may have grounds for wrongful dismissal and reprisal remedies.
Speak with an Occupational Health & Safety Lawyer in Toronto
You don’t need to face unsafe work or employer retaliation alone. Greenwood Law provides expert legal support for workplace hazards, refusal incidents, WSIB claims, and reprisal protection.
Areas We Serve
At Greenwood Law, we proudly serve clients across Ontario & throughout Canada, including:
