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Do workers have any rights in the workplace?

On Behalf of | Apr 26, 2018 | workplace injuries

When employers in California are tasked with creating a safe workplace for their employees, this not only includes detecting and removing possible workplace hazards, but also informing employees of them through trainings, labels, alarms and other methods. They should also keep an accurate record of work-related injuries and illnesses, and provide them to workers when needed. However, this is not the end of the matter. Employers have obligations, and employees have certain rights that they can exercise.

When it comes to training, workers have the right to be trained in a language that they understand. Otherwise, the training is not effective. They have the right to work on machines that are safe, and they should be provided with the requisite safety gear for free. This includes gloves, harnesses and lifelines for falls. They should also be kept safe from toxic chemicals. This includes through protective equipment and substantial changes in the workplace, such as providing proper ventilation to enclosing processes to trap harmful chemicals. Workers can get copies of test results that were conducted to find hazards in the workplace. This is included in worker’s right to information.

Additionally, when someone suspects that their workplace is unsafe, they have the right to request as OSHA inspection, and speak to an inspector. They can even do this anonymously. They can also report their own injuries and illnesses. Workers also have the right to workers’ compensation.

Workers’ compensation is one way to cover the burden associated with a work-related injury. Employers often end up contesting workers’ compensation claims or try to settle them hurriedly, which means an injured employee is offered less than what they deserve. If an injured California resident is facing issues related to workers’ compensation, they may want to consult an experienced attorney.

 

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