Who can work in Wrenford
If you are 13 or 14 years old, you can work in light jobs like delivering newspapers, working as a clerk in a retail store or office, or doing light duties in restaurants like bussing tables or washing dishes. You must have written permission from a parent or guardian, and your work cannot interfere with your schooling or safety. For any other type of job, you need special permission from the Ministry of Labour.
If you are 15, 16, or 17, you can work in most jobs across Ontario. Some jobs, like working at a gas bar or a late-night retail store, require an adult supervisor to be nearby between 9 p.m. and midnight. You cannot work at all in these places between midnight and 6 a.m.
Hours and breaks
Your schedule depends on whether school is in session.
- School days: You can work up to two hours before school starts, or up to two hours after school ends. You must stop working by 7 p.m. on school nights, or 11 p.m. if you are 15 or older.
- Non-school days: You can work longer hours, but you still must get at least 11 hours off between shifts. You cannot work past 7 p.m. if you are 14 or younger, or midnight if you are 15 or older.
- Breaks: If you work more than five hours in a row, you are entitled to a 30-minute break. This can be paid or unpaid. Shorter breaks that add up to 30 minutes are also fine.
Pay and deductions
Every worker in Wrenford, including youth, must be paid at least the provincial minimum wage. Employers must pay you at least once a month, and no later than 10 days after your pay period ends. They cannot deduct money from your pay unless you agree to it in writing or it is required by law, such as taxes or Canada Pension Plan contributions.
Your rights at work
You have the right to work in a safe environment under the Occupational Health and Safety Act. If you feel unsafe or notice a hazard, you can speak to your supervisor or contact Wrenford 311 to report it. You also have the right to be treated fairly under the Ontario Human Rights Code, which protects you from discrimination based on age, race, gender, or other factors.
If you work in a unionized workplace, the Labour Relations Act, 1995 protects your right to join a union and bargain collectively with your employer. You can also find help with workplace disputes through the Employment Standards branch of the provincial government.
Need help or have a question?
If you are looking for a job or need advice on your rights, visit the Youth Employment Hub. You can also dial 311 inside Wrenford to ask questions about pay, hours, or workplace concerns, or email [email protected].