Workplace safety laws protect the rights of employees and protect them from harm. These laws minimize the risks of occupational accidents and injuries and set standards for handling such incidents whenever they occur. Whether you work in a factory, an office, or a construction site, the laws are applicable to you.
Understanding workplace safety laws is essential for seeking justice in unfavorable situations, holding your employer accountable, and receiving compensation. With proper awareness, you can shield yourself from occupational risks, ensure your physical safety, and protect your mental health. Keep reading to learn more about some major workplace safety laws.
Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA)
The Occupational Safety and Health Act primarily ensures that employees have a conducive working environment. As such, employers have to provide formal training for employees before assigning duties to them. Depending on the work environment, this training includes the provision and use of protective gear.
Under this act, workers also have the right to report the state of their work environments. Hence, you can file a complaint and request an inspection if you notice a safety hazard in your place of work. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration also sets anti-retaliation policies to protect employees from punishment and other consequences of speaking up.
Workers’ Compensation Law
Regardless of protective laws, work-related accidents are unavoidable. Thus, the workers’ compensation law provides financial support for those who suffer from occupational diseases, injuries, or mental trauma as a result of their work. Even if you were out of the office at the time of the accident, you can still receive compensation if you were on an official assignment.
Although the compensation package covers funds for wage replacement and medical care, the statute varies by state. When you submit your medical record and file a workers’ compensation claim with the company’s insurance provider, their agents will carry out evaluations. If you are eligible for the claim, they will disburse your benefits promptly.
Employer Liability
Employer liability is a common law of tort that allows workers to demand accountability and recompense from their employer in the event of negligence or intentional harm. Imagine that an employee is injured in a work vehicle road crash due to distracted driving by a driver with a history of traffic violations. In this case, they may be able to hold the employer responsible.
If you live in the state, it’s advisable to seek the counsel of a Florida car accident lawyer like Blakeley Law Firm, P.A. when taking legal action. Your lawyer will assess the circumstances and determine whether you have the legal grounds to file a personal injury lawsuit against your employer.
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Eligible workers are entitled to an unpaid leave for up to three months each year. During this period, their job remains secure. However, the reason for absence must relate to certain medical and family situations, such as childbirth, adoption, or recovery from illness.
According to the FMLA, employers must maintain their workers’ health benefits. However, only those who have worked for the minimum duration of one year can qualify for the unpaid leave of absence. With this law, employees can take time to attend to other concerns without the fear of losing their jobs.
Endnote
Understanding workplace safety laws is the first step to protecting your health and securing your rights. Major laws that shield employees from physical harm and financial losses include the OSH Act, workers’ compensation law, employee liability, and the FMLA. Being aware of these protections empowers you to advocate for your well-being wherever you work.
