When you sign on to work for an employer, it’s their duty to provide you with proper training and a safe work environment. Whether you’re a full-time staffer or a temporary worker, the company has an obligation to put your health and safety first. Unfortunately, all employers do not honor this commitment.
If you were injured on the job, filing a complaint with OSHA is a must. The Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 grants you and your representatives the right to file both a complaint and to request an inspection of your workplace, if you believe your accident was caused by hazardous onsite conditions.
Many workers hesitate to file a complaint, because they aren’t absolutely certain if a specific standard of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration was violated, but that’s okay. All you have to do is file the complaint, then OSHA will launch a confidential investigation to see if the accident was a result of a lack of compliance on your employer’s part.
How to File an OSHA Complaint
OSHA understands that everyone has a preferred form of communication. To best serve your needs, complaints can be filed via any of the following methods.
Online
Use OSHA’s online complaint form to report your accident. Complaints from workers in OSHA-approved state plan states are forwarded to the designated state plan for review.
Fax/Mail
Download a copy of the OSHA complaint form, fill it out and fax or mail it to your local OSHA regional or area office. This is the best route to take if you’re seeking an onsite inspection, as written complaints signed by you or your representative and submitted to the closest OSHA area office have the best chance of inciting this move. Be sure to list your name, address and phone number on the form, so OSHA can contact you.
Telephone
Give your local OSHA regional or area office a call to discuss your complaint or ask any questions you have surrounding the incident. Take this step in an emergency or life-threatening situation — or call 1-800-321-OSHA — as you or your representative will be able to seek immediate guidance.
Searching for a Chicagoland employer that values safety?
Premium Staffing, Inc. only works with companies that put worker well-being first. Contact us today to find a manufacturing or engineering role with a company that has your best interests at heart.