Document background
The Letter of Refusal to Work is a critical document used in Canadian workplaces when employees exercise their legal right to refuse unsafe work under federal and provincial legislation. This document is typically used when workers encounter situations they reasonably believe could endanger their health and safety or that of others. The letter must detail specific safety concerns, previous communications about the issue, and the circumstances leading to the refusal. It serves as an official record and initiates a formal investigation process as required by law. The document is governed by the Canada Labour Code at the federal level and various provincial Occupational Health and Safety Acts, which outline specific procedures for work refusals and protect workers from reprisals for exercising this right.
