On November 27, 2017, the Fair Workplaces, Better Jobs Act became law, resulting in a number of changes to the Employment Standards Act (ESA). This Guide will be updated as the new rules come into force. Read a complete summary of the changes to the ESA.

While most employees and employers in Ontario are covered by the Employment Standards Act, 2000 (ESA), there are some types of occupations:

  • to which the ESA does not apply,
  • that are covered by the ESA generally but exempt from (not covered by) certain parts of it,
  • that are covered by special rules that change how certain parts of the ESA apply.

The Ministry of Labour’s special rule tool can help you understand how the ESA applies to these types of occupations.