Saturday, September 20, 2025

Right to Refuse Unsafe/Dangerous Work

Here’s what you need to know if you are asked to perform work that may endanger your life or health

Every employee has the right to refuse work they believe is unsafe if they reasonably believe that a task constitutes a danger to their health and safety, or that of another person should they perform the task.

Work refusals follow a process.

The employee must report the work refusal to their supervisor or direct manager and explain why they believe the work is dangerous. The supervisor and employee work together to assess the risk and resolve the concern. If unsure, it is often helpful to engage human resources or other technical experts during this stage.
If the employer and the employee are unable to agree on a resolution, an employee representative from the safety and health committee, or another employee, can be brought in to help assess the situation and attempt to resolve the issue.
If the concern remains unresolved and the employee still feels the work is dangerous, Manitoba Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) can be contacted to determine whether the work continues. Often, your CLAC representative and HR will get involved to attempt to resolve the issue first.

Representatives from Manitoba Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) are available 24 hours per day, 7 days per week at (204) 957-7233 or toll free at 1-855-957-7233.

The Workplace Safety and Health Act has more details on refusing unsafe/dangerous work.

Right to Refuse Unsafe/Dangerous Work

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