If you’re a young person eager to start earning or a parent curious about your child’s rights in the workforce, it’s essential to understand the legal working age in Ontario. Ontario has specific laws that protect young workers, ensure fair treatment, and promote safe work environments based on age, occupation, and industry. This guide breaks down the legal framework, what jobs minors can legally perform, and the responsibilities of employers when hiring younger workers.
Minimum Legal Working Age: General Overview
In Ontario, the Employment Standards Act (ESA) and Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) govern the legal age of employment. While there’s no single age that applies across all jobs, there are age-based restrictions depending on the type of work and the sector involved.
Here’s a breakdown of age minimums by industry:
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14 years old – Young people can work in retail, offices, or food service (non-hazardous environments).
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15 years old – Permitted to work in manufacturing settings (non-hazardous).
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16 years old – Can work in construction and logging preparation areas.
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18 years old – Required for mining, working underground, and other high-risk occupations.
The key takeaway? The nature of the job plays a significant role in determining the minimum legal age for employment in Ontario.
Why Does the Legal Age Vary by Sector?
The differences in legal working age by industry stem from workplace safety concerns. Ontario labor laws prioritize the safety and development of young workers. Jobs in sectors like construction, manufacturing, and mining carry physical risks that younger individuals may not be prepared to handle.
To further protect minors, the OHSA mandates that employers provide proper training and supervision tailored to the age and maturity of the worker. For example, even if a 15-year-old is legally allowed to work in manufacturing, they must not operate dangerous machinery or engage in activities that could pose a serious threat.
Educational Requirements and Employment
Ontario also has educational attendance laws. Young people under 18 are generally required to be enrolled in school, especially if they haven’t completed their high school diploma. This means employment for minors must not interfere with their schooling.
Key educational restrictions include:
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Students must remain in school until at least age 18 or until they graduate.
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Employers must ensure working hours do not conflict with school hours.
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Part-time and after-school jobs are permissible but must comply with ESA provisions regarding rest periods and hours worked.
Restrictions on Work Hours
For those under 18, Ontario law also limits how many hours they can work:
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No more than 8 hours per day.
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Required rest periods between shifts (typically 11 consecutive hours off work each day).
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Mandatory 30-minute eating break for every 5 hours of work.
These rules aim to ensure that young workers are not overworked and have ample time for rest and academic responsibilities.
Employer Responsibilities
Employers in Ontario have a legal duty to:
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Verify age: Before hiring, ensure the applicant meets the minimum age requirement for the job.
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Ensure safety: Provide health and safety training and appropriate supervision for young employees.
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Maintain records: Keep a record of the worker’s age and work hours.
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Follow work hour restrictions: Comply with ESA limits on shifts, breaks, and total hours worked by minors.
Failure to follow these guidelines can result in penalties, fines, or even business suspension, making it critical for businesses to understand and follow the law.
Exceptions and Special Cases
Some roles such as babysitting, newspaper delivery, and certain roles in family businesses may not be subject to the same regulations. However, these exceptions typically come with their own set of expectations and safeguards, particularly if the work involves physical labor or risk.
Students who participate in co-op programs, internships, or apprenticeships under a school program are also subject to different employment rules, provided their position is regulated through a school or government initiative.
Rights of Young Workers
Minors working in Ontario are entitled to:
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Minimum wage – All employees, regardless of age, must be paid at least the general or student minimum wage.
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Breaks and rest periods – As mentioned, proper rest and meal times must be provided.
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Protection from harassment and discrimination – All employees, including minors, are protected under the Ontario Human Rights Code.
Young workers should also feel empowered to report unsafe conditions or any mistreatment without fear of retaliation.
Conclusion
Understanding the legal working age in Ontario is vital for both employers and young individuals seeking job opportunities. Age-based restrictions ensure that work environments remain safe and developmentally appropriate for minors. Whether it’s a part-time job in a retail store or a co-op placement in a trade, following the law helps everyone involved.
For more insights and legal support on employment law in Ontario, Dharsi Law is your trusted partner. We provide guidance to both employers and employees on labor compliance, rights, and workplace safety. Visit Dharsi Law to learn more and ensure your business or employment journey starts on the right legal footing.