Know your rights

Everyone has the right to a safe and healthy workplace. Talk to your boss if something doesn’t feel safe.

• What are my workplace rights and responsibilities?

  All workers in B.C. have three basic health and safety rights.

  1. The right to know about hazards in the workplace
  2. The right to participate in health and safety activities in the workplace
  3. The right to refuse unsafe work without being punished or fired

• Am I allowed to refuse unsafe work?

  It can be intimidating to refuse a task at work — especially if you’re asked to do it by a manager or supervisor — but the most important part of any job is getting home safe at the end of the day.

  If you think a task is likely to endanger you or your co-workers, don’t be afraid to speak up. Here’s how.

  1. Explain to your supervisor why you’re uncomfortable with the task
  2. If your supervisor is unavailable or isn’t being helpful, go to his or her supervisor
  3. If you still can’t get assistance with this issue, talk to your worker health and safety representative, a member of the joint health and safety committee, or a shop steward

  If you’re still unable to resolve the issue, you can call WorkSafeBC anonymously at 604.276.3100 in the Lower Mainland, or 1.888.621.7233 toll-free in B.C.

Learn more about workplace health and safety and take the online New and Young Workers Rights and Responsibilities course to help you understand your workplace health and safety rights and responsibilities.