Workers’ Rights to a Safe Workplace

New York City

Edelman & Edelman, P.C.

The federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) provide safety standards and regulations that apply in the workplace, including construction sites.  If you believe that your workplace is unsafe or poses any particular hazard, you should first contact your supervisor to make him or her aware of the potential hazard.  If the situation is not remedied, you can file a complaint with your local OSHA office.  More information can be obtained at the official OSHA site.

Employers are not allowed to retaliate or discriminate against employees who have filed an OSHA complaint.  If the OSHA office determines that an inspection is warranted, a representative for the employer and a representative for the employee(s) may accompany the inspector during the walk-around.  OSHA imposes certain obligations on the employer, such as providing necessary safety devices, equipment, and training.  Employees similarly must comply with OSHA regulations, such as the use of necessary protective equipment, including ear plugs and protective goggles.  Employees must also report any on-the-job injuries or illnesses to their employer immediately.

If you are injured as a result of your employer's violation of OSHA requirements, you should contact an experienced construction site accident lawyer as soon as possible in order to protect your rights.