Employee handbooks

An employee handbook is a written collection of an employer's workplace policies, procedures and expectations, covering matters such as conduct, leave, technology use and discipline. It is a useful management tool, but a handbook does not automatically form part of the employment contract or bind existing employees to new terms.

How BC law treats it

In BC, a policy binds an existing employee only if it is accepted and supported by fresh consideration, or was part of the original contract. Unilateral changes to fundamental terms risk constructive dismissal, and termination clauses must meet Employment Standards Act minimums and be properly agreed to be enforceable.

What it means for your business

Employers should have new hires acknowledge the handbook at the start of employment and give consideration when introducing significant new terms.

Risks and common mistakes

Relying on a handbook termination clause that the employee never properly agreed to can expose the employer to common law notice claims.

For the full explanation, see our entry on Employment contract.

General information about British Columbia and Canadian law, current to October 2026. It is not legal advice.