Witnessing dangerous, fraudulent, or otherwise wrongful activities at your workplace can be unsettling. Reporting these issues is a courageous step, but many fear retaliation from employers. Ontario law offers protections for whistleblowers, and Achkar Law is here to help you understand your rights and secure the legal support you need.

What Protections Do Whistleblowers Have in Ontario?

Ontario’s legal framework offers whistleblowers several layers of protection, depending on the nature of the information disclosed and the industry involved:

• Public Service of Ontario Act (PSA): Protects public sector employees who report misconduct.
• Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA): Covers employees who report unsafe practices, shielding them from penalties when they report concerns to the Ministry of Labour.
• Ontario Securities Commission (OSC) Whistleblower Program: Allows employees to report securities violations and offers rewards of up to $5 million for tips that lead to action. Whistleblowers can also report anonymously.
• Securities Act and Commodity Futures Act: Provides protection and remedies for employees reporting securities-related misconduct, even for non-shareholders.
• Criminal Code of Canada: Prevents retaliation against employees who report criminal activities within their workplace, protecting those who bring statutory violations to light.

If you’re uncertain about the protections available to you as a whistleblower, contact Achkar Law to discuss your options.

Why Employers Need a Whistleblowing Policy

Employers can reduce the risks associated with whistleblower complaints by implementing a structured whistleblowing policy. This policy:

• Encourages Internal Reporting: Allows employees to raise concerns internally before reaching out to external bodies.
• Protects the Business: Helps employers detect and address issues early, avoiding regulatory penalties and reputational harm.
• Maintains Confidentiality: Supports anonymous reporting options to protect whistleblowers’ identities, fostering trust and reducing fears of retaliation.

A well-drafted whistleblowing policy details the types of incidents employees should report, how to make a report, confidentiality protections, and how the organization will investigate the matter. Achkar Law can assist employers in creating or revising whistleblowing policies to align with Ontario laws and workplace requirements.

Interested in creating a whistleblowing policy? Contact Achkar Law today.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What should I do if I experience retaliation after whistleblowing?

• Contact Achkar Law immediately. We’ll review your situation to determine if you have grounds for a legal claim.

Can employers protect whistleblowers’ identities?

• Yes. A well-designed whistleblowing policy should include provisions for anonymous reporting to protect employee identities.

How does a whistleblowing policy benefit employers?

• A whistleblowing policy can prevent legal risks, help detect issues early, and show a commitment to ethical practices within the workplace.

Contact Achkar Law for Whistleblower Guidance

Taking action as a whistleblower or responding to whistleblowing matters requires informed guidance. Achkar Law’s experienced lawyers are here to help.

Whether you’re an employee reporting concerns or an employer establishing policies, our team offers support for dealing with Ontario’s whistleblower laws with confidence.

Toll-free: 1 (800) 771-7882 | Email: [email protected]