As an employee in the New York, you are entitled to workers’ rights. Workers in the U.S. are protected by the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 (OSH Act), which is meant to prevent workers from being injured or killed in the workplace. The OSH Act requires your workplace to be safe and to meet contemporary industry standards. Workers’ Compensation laws enable employees to seek monetary compensation for injuries suffered in the workplace.
Your Rights as a Worker Under the OSH Act
Under the OSH Act, you have the right to access information and training about potential hazards and harm prevention specific to your workplace. Workers’ rights include receiving training in a language and/or manner that you can understand.
You also have the right to access certain records from your employer. This includes records of work-related injuries or illnesses, results of tests or monitoring done in the workplace, and copies of workplace medical records.
If at any time you feel that your workplace is unsafe, you have the right to file a confidential complaint with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to instigate an inspection. You can participate in the inspection, as well as have private discussions with the inspector.
If your employer dismisses you or otherwise retaliates after the inspection, you can file a complaint with OSHA. You cannot be discriminated against for exercising your rights under the OSH Act.
What to Do About a Workplace Injury
If you have been injured at work, your employer is obligated to cover your medical expenses and some or all of your lost wages. If your employer fails to compensate you appropriately, contact a New York workplace injury attorney.
An attorney who is familiar with Workers’ Compensation and New York law could be a big help in your injury claim. Contact an attorney at Gacovino, Lake & Associates for a free consultation if you have suffered a workplace injury. Call us at: 1-800-246-4878.
