Attorneys
Last Updated: 7/6/2023
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration, or OSHA, is responsible for setting and enforcing workplace health and safety regulations. If you notice a workplace safety violation, then you have the right to report the problem to OSHA. Here's how to report an OSHA violation.
Report the Problem to Your Employer
The first step is notifying your employer of the issue. If your employer becomes aware of the safety hazard, they may take action to correct it. If they do, then you may not have to take any additional action. But if they don't, proceed to take other measures to coerce the employer to correct it.
Take Detailed Notes Regarding the Safety Problem
When reporting OSHA violations to the agency, it’s very important that you provide the administration with as many details as possible. As such, take specific notes regarding the safety problem, including exactly what the problem entails. Also note who is aware of the problem, when the problem began, and potential risks to workers.
Report a Safety Problem to OSHA In Person or On the Phone
After you identified a safety problem, notified your employer of the problem, and took thorough notes regarding it, you can report the problem in person at a local OSHA office. You can also report it over the phone by calling toll free at 1-800-321-OSHA.
File a Complaint with OSHA Online
If you would rather file your safety concern online, you have the option of filing a complaint through the administration’s website. The online form is completely anonymous and includes questions about the description and location of the hazard, to whose attention you brought the problem, and what your current status within the workplace is (former employee, current employee, etc.).
For Life-Threatening Situations
If the situation is an emergency, or an “imminent life threatening situation,” you should bypass filing a claim online and call OSHA immediately. Use the number above – 1-800-321-OSHA (6742) – to report emergency situations.
Take Legal Action if a Workplace Hazard Injured You in Iowa
Workers’ compensation in the state of Iowa allows you to recover damages for harm you sustained in a workplace injury. In some cases, though, a third party (outside of your employer) may be responsible for the harm you suffered. In either situation, an attorney can assist you in recovering benefits or damages. Call Walker, Billingsley & Bair today at (888) 435-9886 or use our contact form to schedule your consultation.
