The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets and enforces regulations to guarantee safe and healthy working conditions for employees. Knowing your rights under OSHA is essential for maintaining workplace safety and health.
What Are Your Rights?
OSHA prohibits employers from retaliating against employees for exercising their rights, such as filing a complaint or requesting an inspection if they believe serious hazards exist. During inspections, employees have the right to:
- Consult OSHA.
- Have a representative accompany the inspector.
- Answer questions.
In addition to inspection-related rights, employees are entitled to:
- Workplaces free of recognized serious hazards.
- Information about workplace hazards and illnesses.
- Protective equipment required by OSHA standards.
Empowerment Through Knowledge
Employers are tasked with duties under OSHA, but employees are provided with rights that enable them to actively protect their occupational safety and health. Being aware of these rights is a powerful tool for employees striving to create safer work environments.