Definitions

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W

Wage rates

The different amounts paid—whether annual salaries or hourly wages—to employees, depending on their occupation (also referred to as “pay scales”). Wage rates vary based on a range of factors (see Salary), such as general working conditions, the risk associated with doing a job, the training required, the responsibility involved, the hours of work, the type of equipment used on the job, and collective agreements in place between employers and unions.

Wages

Fixed, regular payment for work, paid on an hourly, daily or weekly basis by an employer to an employee. See Salary.

Workforce

The population 15 years of age and older across Canada who are employed or are unemployed but actively looking for work. Also referred to as “labour force.” See Labour  force.

Working-aged population

The population between the ages of 15 and 64.

Work–life balance

A state in which a person achieves a balance in terms of time, energy and personal satisfaction between paid work and other important areas of life, such as family and recreation.