The Legal Working Age in Alberta: Everything You Need to Know

Working age laws and regulations can be a confusing topic, especially for young individuals entering the workforce. In Alberta, there are specific rules and guidelines that dictate the minimum age at which individuals can begin working, as well as the types of jobs they can legally perform. Understanding these laws is crucial for both employers and employees to ensure compliance and promote a safe and fair working environment.

Legal Age to Work in Alberta

According to the Employment Standards Code of Alberta, the legal working age in the province is 12 years old. However, there are certain restrictions and limitations for individuals under the age of 18. For example, individuals aged 12 and 13 are only allowed to work in certain types of employment, such as delivering newspapers, working in an artistic endeavour, or in a business solely owned or operated by their parents. Those aged 14 and 15 have slightly more flexibility, but are still prohibited from working in hazardous occupations.

Employment Standards Individuals Under 18

For individuals under the age of 18, the Employment Standards Code outlines specific rules and regulations to ensure their safety and well-being in the workplace. These include limits on hours of work, rest periods, and restrictions on hazardous work. The table below provides a summary of the key provisions under the Employment Standards Code for young workers in Alberta:

Age Maximum Hours Work per Day Minimum Rest Periods Prohibited Work
12-13 2 hours on a school day / 8 hours on a non-school day 30 minutes every 5 hours of continuous work Hazardous work, industrial undertakings
14-15 2 hours on a school day / 8 hours on a non-school day 30 minutes every 5 hours of continuous work Hazardous work, industrial undertakings

Case Study: Ensuring Compliance Youth Employment Laws

One notable case involving youth employment in Alberta involved a retail business that employed individuals under the age of 18 to work late hours and in hazardous conditions. The business was found to be in violation of the Employment Standards Code, and was subsequently fined and required to improve their policies and procedures to ensure compliance with youth employment laws.

Understanding the legal working age in Alberta is essential for both employers and young individuals seeking employment. By adhering to the regulations set forth in the Employment Standards Code, businesses can ensure a safe and fair working environment for all employees, while young workers can benefit from valuable work experience without compromising their well-being.


Legal Working Age in Alberta Contract

As per the laws and regulations of the province of Alberta, this contract outlines the legal working age for individuals within the jurisdiction.

Article I – Definitions
1.1 “Legal Working Age” refers to the minimum age at which an individual is legally permitted to engage in gainful employment in Alberta, as determined by the Employment Standards Code.
Article II – Legal Working Age Alberta
2.1 Pursuant to the Employment Standards Code of Alberta, the legal working age in the province is 12 years old. However, there are restrictions on the type of work and hours that individuals under the age of 15 can undertake.
2.2 Individuals between ages 12 15 limited type work perform hours work, as set Employment Standards Code its accompanying regulations.
Article III – Compliance Applicable Laws
3.1 All parties to this contract agree to comply with the legal working age and related regulations as outlined in the Employment Standards Code of Alberta.
3.2 Any violation of the legal working age provisions as set out in this contract may result in legal consequences and penalties in accordance with the Employment Standards Code.
Article IV – Governing Law
4.1 This contract shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the province of Alberta.

Legal Working Age in Alberta: 10 Common Questions Answered