DESI FORUM

IS THAT JOB OFFER TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE?

Canada has strict workplace safety laws. You should not be forced to perform a task that would put you or your co-workers at risk of injury. Image credit: NEWS CANADA.

From NEWS CANADA

Do you know the warning signs that could lead you into the world of labour trafficking? While the problem is widespread and can occur in any type of work, industries often linked to forced labour include construction, agriculture, manufacturing and hospitality. People may also be hired as housekeepers or childcare workers, but forced to work long hours for low or no pay.

Migrant workers and newcomers are often targets as they may struggle with a language barrier, lack social support networks and may not be aware of their legal rights.

Any legitimate job offer should clearly spell out the wages, hours and expectations. If the offer is in a language you don’t fully understand, check with someone who is fluent to be sure you understand all aspects of the offer. You should not be required to pay fees to be hired.

While you will need to share some personal information such as your social insurance number on being hired, your identification documents should always remain in your possession. If an employer demands that you hand over your passport or other personal documents, that’s a serious warning sign.

Withholding pay or using threats of deportation or contacting the police to intimidate you are also common ploys employed by traffickers.

Canada has strict workplace safety laws. You should not be forced to perform a task that would put you or your co-workers at risk of injury.

More on warning signs of labour trafficking at canada.ca/human-trafficking