Since the passing of the Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Act in 1970, workers’ right to work in an environment that is free from known dangers has been guaranteed. When these rights are not upheld accidents, injuries, fatalities and litigation can be the result.
Workers’ compensation helps to take care of workers injured on the job. However, if the injury was caused by not upholding the workers’ rights afforded under the OSH Act, the case can spill over into personal injury.
What are my rights as a worker under the OSH Act?
The OSH Act is designed to guarantee certain rights to workers. Here is a brief list of some of these rights:
- Right to file a confidential complaint: When a worker feels that unsafe work conditions are present in the workplace, they have the right to file a complaint to OSHA in a confidential manner.
- Information and training: If the work environment poses hazards, then workers have the right to information and training that is designed to mitigate harm.
- Review: Workers have the right to review work-related injury reports that have occurred in their workplace.
- Copies: Workers are allowed to receive copies of medical reports as well as testing results related to workplace hazards.
- Whistleblower retaliation: Workers are protected from retaliation when blowing the whistle on their employer. If the worker feels that they are being discriminated against or retaliated against then they can file another claim to OSHA.
OSHA has gone to great lengths to ensure that workers have a safe and healthy work environment, and the right to complain if put in harm’s way. Additionally, OSHA protects workers’ rights when making a claim, if that claim results in retaliation from the employer.
An attorney can help workers navigate the process to obtain compensation after suffering an injury at work. Steven L. Morgan, P.C., can help. Call 912-289-0640 or send an email today.
