Key Takeaways
- OHSA offences carry fines of up to $500,000 for individuals and up to $2,000,000 for corporations (OHSA, s. 66(1)–(2)).
- Appeals of OHSA inspector orders are due within 30 days (s. 61(1)).
- Prosecutions and orders are separate tracks. Missing an order appeal does not resolve the prosecution.
Multiple Tracks
A workplace incident can produce inspector orders (appealable to the OLRB within 30 days under OHSA, s. 61(1)) and charges prosecuted in the Ontario Court of Justice. Licensed businesses may also face licensing consequences under their own statutes.
Practical Points
- Calendar the order appeal deadline separately from court dates.
- Coordinate what is said to inspectors, investigators and the court.
- Consider how a guilty plea may affect licensing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a corporation liable as well as supervisors?
OHSA duties apply to employers, supervisors, workers and others. Charges can be laid against more than one party.
Does a guilty plea affect my licence?
It may. Many licensing statutes consider past conduct and convictions.
Sources
Statutory references are to the provisions listed below, as consolidated on e-Laws when this page was prepared.
- Occupational Health and Safety Act, ss. 61, 66 — Checked November 10, 2026.