OSHA Rules Protect Workers' Health and Safety

July 03, 2011

OSHA Rules Protect Workers' Health and Safety

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) monitors workplace environments and practices to ensure safety in all 50 states through federal and state programs. OSHA rules protect employees from hazards; violations of those rules result in citations or fines for the employer. There are different OSHA rules for jobs in construction, agriculture, maritime operations and general industry. These rules cover a variety of hazards, from preventing infectious diseases and exposure to dangerous substances to ensuring adequate training for dangerous jobs.

OSHA also provides information for workers and employers on its website that explain typical hazards in a workplace. When a worker believes he or she may be in an unsafe work environment, it is a good idea to check the website for more information.

Requesting OSHA to Inspect a Workplace

If a worker is concerned that his or her employer is violating OSHA rules, the administration gives workers the right to:
-Have OSHA inspect their workplace upon request
-Be protected from retaliation for contacting OSHA
-Receive information about the safety hazard(s) and how to prevent them
-Receive information on the history of work injuries and illnesses involving their workplace

The inspection will be conducted without any prior notice to the employer. During an inspection, the worker has a right to attend the inspection, speak with the inspector privately and take part in meetings between OSHA and the employer.

A worker can file a complaint in several ways: online, by phone or fax. Some workers choose to obtain representation before filing a complaint and have their representative file a complaint for them.

Workers' Compensation

Unfortunately, accidents do happen at work. According to OSHA, nearly 5,000 workers lost their lives because of a workplace accident in 2009, the most recent data currently available. Almost one million workers had to miss days because of a work-related injury.

When fatalities and injuries occur because of work activities, a worker can receive compensation for medical expenses and wage loss. If you or a loved one received injuries from a workplace accident, contact a workers' compensation attorney to discuss your case.

Article provided by Crossman Law Offices, P.C.
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