A certain level of danger is inherent to certain jobs, with industries such as construction and manufacturing carrying more risk. However, your employer has a legal responsibility to minimize hazards by providing a safe workplace environment.
Under the California labor code, you have the right to refuse to perform dangerous duties or work in perilous conditions. However, you may fear putting your employment at risk by doing so. If you notice unsafe activities taking place in your workplace, you may report it.
Alert your manager or supervisor of the situation
The first step to take is to report the observed issues with your direct supervisor or manager, who may then correct them or pass them on to someone higher up in the chain of command. It is this individual’s imperative to ensure safety and health at work.
File a report with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration
If your manager or supervisor brushes the problem off and refuses to take action, you may file an anonymous complaint with OSHA and request a workplace inspection. The agency must keep your name confidential unless you express a wish for it to do otherwise.
Note that it is also against the law for your boss to retaliate against you or threaten you for reporting. If you believe you are the victim of such unlawful behaviors, you have 30 days from the threat or retaliation to file a whistleblower complaint. If you suffer injuries as a result of the company’s inaction with regards to reported dangers, you may qualify for compensation.
