Be SafeIt’s the Law

Date July 13, 2010

President Richard Nixon may not be perceived as the most ethical of leaders due to the infamous Watergate scandalbut he does happen to be responsible for your right to a safe workplace. When Nixon signed the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHAct) on December 29, 1970, he ensured the safety of employees around the country. The OSH Act was passed to prevent serious injury or death in the workplace and is strictly enforced by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Since its passing in 1970, there have been close to 30 amendments and additions that keep the laws up to date and applicable to today’s workforce.Under the OSH Act, employers are required to provide employees with working conditions free of known dangers. Workers have the right to receive information and training about hazards, methods to prevent harm, and the OSHA standards that apply to your workplace. The OSHA will provide workplace inspections upon request and employees are entitled to the results. If you choose to file a complaint and ask OSHA to inspect your workplace, your identity will remain confidential and your employment will be protected. You can file complaints online, via mail, or telephone (1-800-321-OSHA). Workers also have the right to review records of work related injuries and illnesses, get copies of their medical records, and use their rights free from retaliation and discrimination.Knowing your workplace is required by law to abide by safety rules and regulations is vital to your sense of security. While the Act enforces the law, it is up to you to maintain it. If you see a safety hazard, don’t be afraid to report it. Additional areas of safety coverage provided by the OSHAct include hearing conservation, chemical hazard communication, workplace violence, personal protective equipment, and health hazard evaluations.

Category Posted in Laws

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