Many workers in Colorado and elsewhere may not know this, but they have the Occupational Safety and Health Administration to thank for safer work environments. OSHA was created in 1970 to regulate and enforce safety measures that keep employees from getting sick, injured or even dying. Even if employees are aware of all of this, they may still be uncertain as to precisely how OSHA benefits injured workers.
OSHA handles a variety of areas that can cause harm to workers. This includes biological agents, chemical hazards, construction safety, ergonomics, air quality and other topics. They have strict regulations that pertain to each area with the intention of preventing accidents in the workplace.
In addition to outlining specific safety guidelines for employers to follow, OSHA gives rights to employees when dealing with issues of safety. Employees cannot be fired or reprimanded in any way for the assertion of their OSHA rights, and they have the right to request that their employer fully explain their rights. Employees are able and encouraged to file a complaint with OSHA if they feel their workplace is unsafe and request an inspection. These are just a few of an employee’s guarantees as provided through OSHA.
The scope of OSHA involves more facets that may be of interest to employees. More information is available at the website FindLaw that may be useful to Colorado employees. Injured workers have the option of filing a workers’ compensation claim in the event that they are hurt in the course of their duties, in order to help cover medical expenses and at least a portion of lost wages.
Source: FindLaw.com, “Your Safety at Work — OSHA and State Law“, , Aug. 24, 2014
Source: FindLaw.com, “Your Safety at Work — OSHA and State Law“, , Aug. 24, 2014
