Construction workers have a job that is dangerous for several reasons — the equipment, the job site, and the duties. Because of the danger of this profession, it is critical that all employers provide the construction workers with an environment that is as safe as possible. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has set forth very specific obligations that employers must meet so that construction workers remain safe while they are doing their job duties.
What specific obligations do employers have?
Employers must ensure that the work area for construction workers is free of all hazards that can be recognized. They must make sure that OSHA standards are conveyed to employees. They must ensure that all equipment and any tools provided are safe to use. Various written documents and posters must be displayed or provided to employees. Some of these include an official OSHA poster regarding the OSH Act, material safety data sheets, and safety and health standards.
What are some responsibilities and rights of construction workers?
Employees must review information provided by the company regarding safety standards, regulations, and rules. They have the right to examine all test results if a hazard is found in the workplace. They can also review all records of work-related illnesses and injuries. They can file complaints with OSHA if the company is violating OSHA standards. These complaints can include a withheld name; however, employees have the right to avoid harassment, retaliation, or discrimination because of complaints made ot OSHA.
The OSHA standards are an important part of keeping workers safe. If a Miami worker is injured because of a violation of OSHA standards, the employee might choose to seek compensation for one’s injuries.
Source: FindLaw, “OSHA and Construction Workers’ Right to a Safe Workplace,” accessed Feb. 17, 2016
