If your employer is not maintaining a safe and healthful work environment because they are neglecting to meet the standards set forth by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), you must file a complaint as it can help prevent serious workplace injuries and illnesses. Unfortunately, many are hesitant to report the conditions as they fear their employer will fire them. However, it is illegal for employers to retaliate in any capacity against a worker for reporting unsafe or unhealthful working conditions. Keep reading to learn about the most common OSHA violations and how a knowledgeable Chesterfield County Work Injury Lawyer can help you through this process.
What is the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)?
Unfortunately, regardless of the industry you work in, there is a potential risk of injury and illness when employers do not adhere to certain safety and health regulations. When a worker is injured due to unsafe or unhealthful working conditions, they can file a complaint with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). The OSHA Act was created in 1970 as a public health agency dedicated to protecting employees’ basic human rights. OSHA enforces and sets health and safety standards to ensure employers maintain safe and healthful workplaces for their workers. They do so by conducting inspections and offering training to employers. OSHA’s main goal is to ensure workers are not at risk of injuries and illnesses because of their work environment.
What are the most common OSHA violations?
Different industries require employers to meet different health and safety standards as some occupations have more hazards such as construction sites. Employees must know the most frequently cited safety violations. This can help them identify any hazardous conditions that could pose a risk to their overall safety and well-being. According to research, the following are some of the most common OSHA violations:
- Fall protection
- Ladders
- Scaffolding
- Powered industrial trucks
- Machinery hazards
- Lockout/Tagout
- Respiratory protection
- Eye and Face protection
- Communication hazards
Will I get fired for filing a complaint?
As mentioned above, if you believe your employer is not meeting OSHA’s health and safety standards, you have the right to file a complaint. As an employee, you cannot be fired, demoted, transferred, denied benefits, harassed, or otherwise retaliated against for exercising your right to a safe and healthful work environment. If you believe that your employer has retaliated against you for making a report, it is critical to speak with an experienced lawyer who can help you take the appropriate steps. Essentially, you have 30 days from the date of retaliation to file a retaliation complaint.
For more information on filing a complaint with OSHA for unsafe and unhealthful work conditions, contact a determined Chesterfield County work injury lawyer. If your employer has retaliated against you for making a report, our skilled lawyers can help you get the justice you deserve. Contact us today!