Reference no: EM133275601

Jennifer and Pierre are new employees at a computer start-up. They have noticed a number of things that seem odd but are unsure if they are common practice in start-ups. First, there are cables connecting computers to each other and to the servers, and in many cases separate cables running from computers to separate printers. There are 10 telephones in the office, all on five-meter phone lines that always seem to be snaking around chairs and tables. Several employees have tried to reduce the nuisance of having to trip over wires whenever they get up by putting their plastic chair pads over the wires closet to them. Second, every employees spends many hours at his or her computer, and communicates with their colleagues down the hall by emailing and texting. Third, the firm uses independent contractors to deliver the firm's products. A delivery person was riding his bike at the corner of Yonge and Dundas in Toronto, where he was struck by a car. The front wheel of the bike was wrecked, even though he was not badly hurt

Questions

1. If the start-up happened to receive a visit from the Ministry of Labour, what specific areas do you feel they would be ordered to change and why?

2. Do Jennifer and Pierre have specific responsibilities for ensuring their health and safety? Does anyone?

3. What unsafe conditions and acts were described in the case?