Employment Standards: What they cover and how you can comply

Employment standards, sometimes called labour standards, is the set of provincial laws that determine the minimum requirements for non-unionized employees at work. 

Most employers and employees are covered by the Employment Standards Act. In New Brunswick, the Act does not distinguish between part-time, full-time, seasonal and casual employees. There are a few occupations not covered by employment standards; these include people who work in a private home for the homeowner (babysitters, home care workers, construction workers who are employed directly by the homeowner) and independent contractors.

NOTE: The Canada Labour Code covers employees who work in industries that fall under federal jurisdiction, such as railways, pipelines, ferries, banks, inter-provincial trucking and shipping, and telecommunications.

In New Brunswick, you can access details about the Employment Standards on the government website. 
Employment standards regulations cover:

• Minimum wage
  • Minimum wage in New Brunswick is currently $11 per hour. 
  • Minimum wage will increase April 1, 2018; however, the amount has not yet been determined.
• Hours of work – including overtime rules 
• Vacation entitlement 
• Public holidays 
• Leaves of absence
• Termination notice requirements 

Employment standards can be reached by calling 506-453-2725, or you can contact your CFIB Counsellor for more information.