Labour

Labour means work performed for pay. In law it often refers to the rules governing employers and employees, including minimum employment standards, collective bargaining, workplace safety and human rights. Independent contractors are generally outside employment standards legislation, although worker status depends on the real relationship.

How BC law treats it

In BC, minimum standards are set by the Employment Standards Act, RSBC 1996 c 113, unionized workplaces by the Labour Relations Code, and workplace safety by the Workers Compensation Act, RSBC 2019 c 1. A non-union employer may dismiss without cause but must give statutory notice under ESA s. 63 and reasonable notice at common law unless validly limited by contract.

What it means for your business

BC employers should have written employment contracts and correctly classify workers as employees or contractors.

Risks and common mistakes

Treating a worker as a contractor when the relationship is really employment can create liability for unpaid statutory entitlements and notice.

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

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