As a construction worker, you are subject to many dangerous hazards and environmental conditions every day. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration, or OSHA, was designed to help reduce workplace hazards. If you are a construction worker in Tennessee, it would be helpful to know your rights and how they can protect you while working on dangerous construction projects.
WHAT ARE MY CONSTRUCTION EMPLOYEE RIGHTS UNDER OSHA?
OSHA falls under the jurisdiction of the Department of Labor. Under federal law, you are entitled to a safe working environment. You have certain rights and responsibilities, including:
- The right to review certain standards, rules and regulations that your employer should have copies of at your workplace.
- Having access to important employee medical and exposure records.
- The right to request an OSHA director to inspect your workplace if you believe there are any hazardous conditions.
- Receiving copies of inspection reports of any hazards are in your workplace.
- Having your name hidden from your employer if you signed and filed a written OSHA complaint
- Freedom of any discriminatory or retaliatory action taken by your employer as a result of a complaint through OSHA
- Reviewing any records of recent work-related injuries or illnesses
Your employer also has certain duties under OSHA, including providing a workplace free from dangerous hazards and ensuring that all employees have and use safe equipment and tools. If your employer failed to recognize an obvious hazard, or if he or she refused to fix or remove the hazard, you should contact an OSHA area officer immediately to file a written complaint. The OSHA area office will then decide if an inspection is needed if they believe other hazards could be present.
If you were injured as a result of a construction accident, you can be entitled to receive compensation for your injuries. Contact the Law Office of Stanley A. Davis today for a free consultation.