712 Safety Supervision and Leadership

Employee Rights

Employee rights listed on the poster related to OSHA include:

• The right to a safe and healthful workplace: Employees have the right to work in an environment that is free from recognized hazards that can cause death or serious physical harm. Employers must provide a workplace that is safe and free from such hazards.
• The right to know about hazardous chemicals used in the workplace through labels and safety data sheets: Employers must inform employees about the presence of hazardous chemicals in the workplace through labeling and safety data sheets. Employees have the right to know what chemicals they are working with and how to handle them safely.
• The right to receive training about workplace hazards and safety measures: Employers must provide training to employees on how to identify workplace hazards and how to work safely. Employees have the right to receive this training.
• The right to access information about workplace injuries and illnesses: Employers are required to maintain records of workplace injuries and illnesses. Additionally, employees have the right to access these records.

• The right to file a complaint with OSHA if there are unsafe or unhealthy conditions in the workplace: Employees have the right to file a complaint with OSHA if they believe that their workplace is unsafe or unhealthy.
• The right to participate in an OSHA inspection and to speak with the inspector: Employees have the right to participate in an OSHA inspection and to speak with the inspector about any concerns they have regarding workplace safety.
• The right to participate in safety and health activities in the workplace: Employees have the right to participate in safety and health activities in the workplace, such as safety committees and training sessions.
• The right to be free from retaliation for exercising rights under OSHA: Employers are prohibited from retaliating against employees for exercising their rights under OSHA. If an employee feels that they have been retaliated against, they have the right to file a complaint with OSHA.

The list above reflects the fact that the employer has control of work and workplace conditions. Tied to that control is accountability. Now let's look at the general responsibilities employees have to the employer.

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