Know Your Rights
Speaking Up for Safety at Work
Working in tourism and hospitality means fast-paced shifts, high service level expectations, and plenty of moments where it feels easier to just push through. But no task is worth getting hurt over. In BC, every worker has legal rights that protect their health and safety on the job, along with responsibilities that help keep everyone safe. Knowing both puts you in a stronger position to speak up when something doesn't feel right.
Your Three Key Safety Rights
The right to know. You have the right to be told about hazards in your workplace. Your employer should give you the information, instructions, training, and supervision you need to do your job safely before the work begins. If you haven't received it, don’t be afraid to ask!
The right to participate. You have the right to give input on how your workplace keeps people safe. That can mean reporting concerns, sharing ideas for improvement, or becoming a worker health and safety representative or a member of your joint health and safety committee.
The right to refuse unsafe work. If you have good reason to believe a task could hurt you or someone else, you can say no. Start by letting your supervisor know about your concern so they can investigate it. If you can’t resolve it together, WorkSafeBC outlines clear next steps to follow. Your employer can’t discipline or penalize you for raising safety concerns. Learn more here.
Know Your Role: Worker Responsibilities
Safety is a team effort, just like a smooth service. Here’s how you can do your part:
• Speak up when you spot a hazard, like a frayed cord, a broken step stool, or a coworker taking a risky shortcut, and let your supervisor know right away
• Wear your protective gear properly, from non-slip shoes to cut-resistant gloves, and let someone know if it’s worn out or damaged
• Lend a hand with safety inspections or incident investigations when you’re asked
• Tell your supervisor about any injury or illness that happens at work, no matter how minor it seems
Not sure who’s responsible for what? Learn more about everyone’s role in keeping the workplace safe.
Explore More Worker Resources
go2HR's worker resources hub is packed with health and safety information made for people working in tourism and hospitality. A few good places to start:
• Starting a new job? Ask about safety!: the questions worth asking in your first few shifts
• Become a Worker Representative: how to take a bigger role in keeping your team safe
• Worker Checklist: Workplace Bullying and Harassment: practical next steps if you're dealing with or witnessing bullying or harassment
Speaking up about safety is your right, and it’s one of the best ways to look out for yourself and your team. The more workers know their rights, the safer and stronger BC’s hospitality industry becomes.
