If you believe that you are working in an unsafe or unhealthful work environment, you should file a complaint with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) so an inspection can be conducted of your workplace. Oftentimes, employees are afraid to make a report because they fear they will lose their job. However, there is no need to worry because it is illegal to fire, demote, transfer, or otherwise retaliate against a worker for filing a complaint about unsafe or unhealthful work conditions. Keep reading to learn more about OSHA violations and how a trusted Corpus Christi, Texas Work Injury Lawyer can help you. 

What is the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)?

According to research, in 1970 Congress established the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). This administration was created to ensure safe and healthful working conditions for employees by setting standards and providing training and education to companies/employers.  They enforce their regulations through inspections. Ultimately, OSHA aims to prevent serious accidents and injuries.

What are the most common safety violations?

Depending on your occupation, your employer will be required to meet certain health and safety standards. Employees must know the most frequently cited safety violations to help prevent them as workplace injuries and illnesses can negatively impact workers’ livelihoods. According to research the most common OSHA violations include but are not limited to the following:

  • Fall protection
  • Hazard communication
  • Respiratory protection
  • Eye and face protection
  • Lockout/Tagout
  • Ladders
  • Scaffolding
  • Powered industrial trucks
  • Machinery hazards

As mentioned above, your employer cannot retaliate against you for filing a complaint with OSHA. Employers cannot try to fire you, demote you, or transfer you because you filed a complaint with OSHA. Employees have the right to a safe and healthful work environment. If you believe that your employer has retaliated against you in any way because of your complaint, you can take legal action against your employer. It is in your best interest to retain the legal services of a skilled Corpus Christi, Texas work injury lawyer who can help you file a whistleblower complaint within 30 days of your employer’s wrongful actions against you. Ultimately, if you believe your employer is retaliating against you because you filed a complaint with OSHA, it is critical to have the right legal representation to ensure your rights are protected.

For more information on OSHA violations, please don’t hesitate to reach out to one of our determined team members. Our firm is committed to helping our clients get the justice they deserve. Employees have a right to a safe and healthful work environment. Don’t be afraid to report a safety violation as it can help prevent future accidents and injuries. Allow our firm to represent your interests today!