OSHA stands for the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, which is the federal agency that sets and enforces workplace safety standards. For Maryland employees, understanding the basics of OSHA is important to remain safe in the workplace. What do employees need to know about OSHA?
What Does OSHA Do?
The primary purpose of OSHA is to protect workers from injury or illness due to hazardous working conditions. This includes providing employers with information and resources on creating a safe work environment. They also set requirements for employers regarding reporting any workplace accidents or injuries.
Additionally, OSHA also provides employees with specific rights. This includes the right to be informed about hazardous materials they may be exposed to while performing their job duties.
What Are My Rights Under OSHA?
Under OSHA regulations, every employee has certain rights in the workplace. These include the right to:
- Be informed about hazardous materials
- File complaints without fear of retaliation
- Receive training on how to perform their job safely
Additionally, all employees have the right to access copies of any safety violations or reports filed by their employer with OSHA if requested. Lastly, every employee has a duty under OSHA regulations to follow all rules and procedures set forth by their employer regarding safety practices in the workplace.
How Can I Report an Injury at Work?
If you have experienced an injury at work or have witnessed a co-worker being injured, it is important that you report it immediately. The best way to do this is by notifying your supervisor. They’ll file an incident report with OSHA.
You should provide detailed information regarding what happened. This way your employer can properly address any potential hazards or risks associated with your job duties. Additionally, if you feel like your employer has failed to protect you, you can file a complaint directly with OSHA for further investigation if necessary.
What Do Employees Need to Know about OSHA?
OSHA plays an important role in keeping employees safe while performing their job duties. Every employee must understand their rights under these regulations. They should also know how they can report any workplace injuries or incidents should they occur during their employment tenure. By staying up-to-date on these regulations, employees can ensure their employers are compliant with state laws and protected against any potential dangers.
To learn more about how a workers’ compensation attorney can help you or to schedule a consultation, contact Shugarman & Mehring at 410.783.4200 or toll-free at 888.342.7200.