Regardless of your occupation, there is always a risk of injuries and illnesses if an employer does not meet certain health and safety standards to maintain safe working conditions. However, construction sites are known for being full of health and safety hazards. If you have valid reasoning to believe that your employer neglected to follow the standards set forth by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), you should file a formal complaint as you have the right to a safe workplace. Workers are sometimes afraid to file a complaint with OSHA because they fear they will lose their job. However, there is no need to worry as employers cannot retaliate against a worker for reporting an unsafe or unhealthful workplace. Keep reading to learn about the most commonly cited OSHA violations. In addition, contact an experienced New York City Construction Site Accident Attorney who can help you get justice.
What is the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)?
In 1970, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration was created as a national public health agency responsible for enforcing safety standards and providing training to employers to ensure workers have a safe and healthful work environment. Workers have the right to a safe workplace where they do not have to fear for their life while working. To ensure employers are maintaining safe and healthful work conditions, OSHA conducts regular inspections. In addition, OSHA implements training and education for employers to ensure they understand the safety standards they must meet to prevent serious accidents and injuries.
What are the most frequently cited health and safety violations?
Your employer is legally required to meet certain health and safety regulations. As an employee, it is critical to understand your basic rights to ensure they are not being violated by your employer. When OSHA’s safety and health standards are ignored it could result in serious accidents and injuries. According to research, the most frequently cited safety violations include:
- Fall protection
- Communication hazards
- Respiratory protection
- Eye and face protection
- Ladders
- Scaffolding
- Lockout/Tagout
- Machinery hazards
Unfortunately, many workers are afraid to file a complaint with OSHA because they fear their employer will retaliate against them by firing, demoting, or transferring them for making a report. However, it is illegal for an employer to retaliate against a worker for reporting unsafe or unhealthful work conditions. After filing a complaint, if you believe your employer has wrongfully retaliated against you for exercising your rights, you can file what is known as a whistleblower complaint. This must be filed within 30 days of the retaliation. In addition, you have the right to pursue further legal action. If you believe your employer has retaliated against you, you should speak with a trusted New York City construction site accident attorney.
Workplace injuries and illnesses caused as a result of an employer neglecting to meet OSHA health and safety standards are unacceptable. Don’t hesitate to speak with one of our determined and adept team members. Our firm is committed to helping our clients protect their rights as employees.
