Other Legislation and Standards

1.4

The Human Rights, Citizenship and Multiculturalism Act states:

"Whereas it is recognized in Alberta as a fundamental principle and as a matter of public policy that all persons are equal in: dignity, rights and responsibilities without regard to race, religious beliefs, colour, gender, physical disability, mental disability, age, ancestry, place of origin, marital status, source of income or family status,..."

In Alberta, it is against the law to discriminate against anyone with respect to:

• employment or the application for employment

• goods, services, accommodation or facilities customarily available to the public (e.g., restaurants, stores, hotels, provincial government services)

• tenancy (i.e., residential or commercial rentals)

• public statements, publications, notices, signs, symbols, emblems or other representations

• membership in trade unions, employers' organizations or occupational associations

• pay.

The Human Rights, Citizenship and Multiculturalism Act is administered by the Alberta Human Rights and Citizenship Commission.

The Apprenticeship and Industry Training Act

This Act sets standards for apprenticeship and trades and is administered by the Ministry of Advanced Education. The legislation provides the framework for the apprenticeship and training system. The Act requires government to provide training in designated trades and also regulates who can work in compulsary certification trades.

Standards

Canadian Standards Association (CSA) standards that relate to the workplace include office ergonomics, machine guarding, punch and brake press safety, fork truck safety and other standards for equipment like safety boots, hard hats, electrical appliances, ladders and fall protection. They are not laws themselves but sometimes are referred to, in Alberta legislation, as a standard for compliance with the requirements. The CSA marking on equipment gives users the assurance that it has been tested to meet tough Canadian standards.