Human Resources

Farm and Workforce Development is here to support all your farm’s HR needs. Whether you’re looking for resources on farm safety, HR toolkits, hiring employees, retaining your workforce, or managing temporary foreign workers, we have the support you need.

Key Insights

  • The labour force increased by 36% from 2016 to 2021.
  • The biggest challenge for employers continues to be the difficulty in finding local and experienced labour.
  • Despite the labour force growth, farmers still face significant labour gaps.

Our Farm and Workforce Development team is here to support farmers and provide the resources you need. Get in touch with us at farmandworkforce@nsfa-fane.ca.

  • TOOL KITS- leave as-is
  • REGULATIONS

Nova Scotia’s Labour Standards Regulation sets the minimum employment rules that both employers and employees must follow. It outlines specific guidelines for the recruitment and hiring of workers, including temporary foreign workers, and defines the rights and responsibilities of both parties.

Key Areas of Labour Standards for Farm Workers

  • Minimum Wage: Farm workers under 16 or those harvesting fruit, vegetables, or tobacco on a piecework basis are subject to specific wage rules.
  • Overtime: Farm workers have distinct overtime rules compared to other workers
  • Holidays: Different holiday pay rules apply to farm workers.
  • Day of Rest: Farm workers have specific regulations regarding their day of rest.
  • Call-in Pay: There are specific rules on call-in pay for farm workers.

Guide to Labour Code (Nova Scotia)

This guide helps individuals understand how the Labour Standards legislation applies to employment relationships. There is also information on specific rules and the role of the Nova Scotia Labour Standards Division in enforcement.

Workers Compensation Act

The Workers’ Compensation Act establishes the framework for the administration of compensation, prevention, and return-to-work programs. Regulations under the Act further guide its application.

Occupational Health and Safety Act (Nova Scotia)

Nova Scotia’s Occupational Health and Safety Act establishes workplace safety standards and is administered by the Department of Advanced Education. It covers employer, supervisor, and worker responsibilities and applies specifically to workplaces in Nova Scotia.

For workers in federally regulated sectors, the Canada Labour Code applies instead of provincial regulations.

Human Rights Act (Nova Scotia)

The Nova Scotia Human Rights Act prohibits discrimination based on specific characteristics, ensuring that everyone has the right to equality regardless of nationality, sex, religion, or other protected statuses.

These regulations ensure fair treatment, safety, and protection for workers while defining clear responsibilities for employers.