OSHA Acts Against Organization Which Fired Whistleblower Over Health Concerns
When you have health concerns at your workplace, it is within your rights to raise those concerns, either to your employer directly or to the Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). That’s exactly what one worker did when he was concerned about mold exposure. As a result of his concerns, he was fired. Now, the government is firing back.
According to a press release from OSHA, the employee worked for a nonprofit group called National Council of La Raza Action Fund, Inc. While the offending employer was not a construction company, and not the typical focus of this blog, the employer’s actions illustrate a point very well—that you, as a worker, have a right to be ensured of your safety on the job.
“Every American worker has the right to raise health concerns regarding potential exposures to environmental hazards, such as mold, without fearing retaliation,” said OSHA’s regional administrator Cindy Coe. “We will continue to ensure that these basic worker rights are protected and will prosecute every employer found to violate them.”
The worker was concerned about mold and other environmental factors on the job. He was reportedly wrongfully terminated. As a result, OSHA seeks to have him reinstated with back wages, interest, and damages.
He reported his initial concerns about the mold to management when he said the mold was making him sick. An air quality test showed mold, and the company shut the office for several months. When it reopened, the employee said the conditions were no better. So, he filed a complaint with OSHA. OSHA conducted an inspection and cited the company for its shortcomings. When the company received the citation, the employee was fired.
Whether your job has unsafe fumes or mold or the safety equipment is lacking—you have rights. Construction accidents are common and, in an effort to prevent them, your employer is required to follow certain laws and regulations to keep you safe. Their failure to do so could result in a serious injury.
Whether you noticed a problem and reported it or the problem wasn’t apparent until after you were hurt, you could be entitled to compensation for a construction accident.
Ginarte Construction Accident Lawyers
The New Jersey and New York construction accident attorneys with Ginarte are committed to helping injured workers. Contact our offices today to discuss your accident and the legal options available to you. We can be reached by calling 888-GINARTE.
