Your Right to Refuse Unsafe Work in Ontario: What Every Worker Should Know
When it comes to workplace safety, one of the most common questions Ontario workers ask is:
“Can I refuse unsafe work?”
The short answer is yes — but knowing how and when you can refuse work is just as important as knowing that the right exists. Whether you work in construction, healthcare, manufacturing, retail, or an office environment, understanding this right empowers you to stay safe and ensure your workplace meets legal safety standards.
What Does “Unsafe Work” Actually Mean?
Under Ontario’s Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA), workers have the right to refuse work they believe is likely to endanger:
- Their own health or safety, or
- Someone else’s health or safety
Examples can include:
- Faulty or unguarded machinery
- Exposure to hazardous chemicals without proper protection
- Workplace violence or harassment risks
- Lack of fall protection
- Unsafe electrical setups
- Biological hazards (especially relevant in healthcare)
The key here is reasonable belief — if a typical worker would see the situation as potentially dangerous, your refusal is valid.
How to Legally Refuse Unsafe Work in Ontario
Refusing unsafe work isn’t just a matter of saying “I’m not doing this.” There’s a legal process to follow:
Step 1: Report the hazard to your supervisor
Tell them immediately that you believe the work is unsafe. Stay in a safe place until an investigation begins.
Step 2: Internal investigation
Your supervisor must look into the issue in your presence and attempt to resolve it.
Step 3: If the issue isn’t resolved
You can continue to refuse the work. At this point, a Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development (MLITSD) inspector will be called to investigate.
Step 4: Inspector decision
Their decision is final and legally binding. They may order corrective action — or decide the task is safe.
You Are Protected from Reprisal
Many workers hesitate because they fear retaliation. But Ontario law is clear:
Your employer cannot punish, fire, discipline, or threaten you for refusing unsafe work in good faith.
This includes:
- Reduced hours
- Pay cuts
- Demotion
- Negative performance reviews
- Intimidation
If any of these happen, it could be considered a reprisal, which is illegal — and you have the right to file a complaint.
Why Understanding This Right Matters
A safe workplace isn’t just the employer’s responsibility — it’s a shared responsibility. Workers who know their rights can:
- Prevent accidents before they happen
- Encourage a culture of safety
- Protect their colleagues
- Improve communication on the job site
- Reduce long-term health risks
Most importantly, this right exists because no job is worth risking your life or well-being.
Final Thoughts
Your right to refuse unsafe work is one of the most powerful safety protections in Ontario. If something feels wrong, speak up — not only for your own sake, but for everyone around you.