Law Society of Ontario (LSO) Paralegal Practice Exam

Under the ESA, what is NOT considered an employer obligation?

1. Minimum wage payment

2. Providing health insurance

3. Hours of work and eating periods

4. Public holiday observance

The correct answer is: Providing health insurance

Providing health insurance is not considered an employer obligation under the Employment Standards Act (ESA) in Ontario. The ESA outlines specific minimum standards regarding wages, hours of work, public holidays, and various forms of leave, but it does not mandate that employers must offer health insurance benefits to their employees. Minimum wage payment ensures that employees receive a baseline pay for their work. Hours of work and eating periods regulate the maximum hours an employee can work and the breaks they are entitled to during their shifts. Public holiday observance relates to mandatory days off or extra pay for employees working on designated holidays. These obligations form part of the fundamental rights and standards set out by the ESA, whereas offering health insurance is a discretionary benefit that employers may choose to provide but are not obligated to do so under this legislation.