According to the United States Department of Labor’s enforcement agency, the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA), nearly 5,000 workers died in workplace accidents in 2014. To reduce this tragic human statistic, OSHA is collaborating with trade associations to make the workplace and workers safer.

Recently, OSHA renewed its collaboration agreement with the Independent Electrical Contractors, Inc., to increase awareness and safety measures related to electrical work. The organizations have a plan to implement instructional courses and to protect workers from electrical shock and arc flash hazards by providing:

• Instructional videos;
• Power point presentations;
• In-house training; and
• Toolbox talks.

The alliance wants to bring more information to the non-English speaking community, which has a higher incidence of workplace accidents. OSHA and IEC are directing their combined energies to small businesses that may not have employees with safety training or expertise.

All workers have the right to protection from harm in the workplace. Workers are entitled to receive training in a language they understand, be provided with safety gear, and work in a non-toxic environment on machines that are safe. Workers who feel they are in unsafe conditions can file a complaint with OSHA, and are protected by law from employer retaliation if they report.

While promoting a culture of safety awareness can reduce the number of workplace accidents, it is inevitable that some accidents will occur. When a worker suffers injury at work, that worker is entitled to treatment and compensation. Injured workers must file a claim with the company’s insurance carrier. Claims can be complex and are often denied once or more before they are honored. An injured worker may be eligible to receive lost wages, compensation for hospital bills, rehabilitation expenses, and more. In addition, an injured employee is entitled to any accommodation reasonably necessary in the workplace to facilitate the performance of their job.  Workers who are discriminated or retaliated against for their disabilities or exercise of Workers Compensation rights are entitled to damages.

If you have been discriminated or retaliated against at work, speak to an experienced employment lawyer for workers. You may be entitled to compensation for your damages. At Hanan M. Isaacs, P.C., we will help you navigate and simplify the complexities, so you get what you are entitled to. Call 609-683-7400 or contact us online today to schedule a reduced fee initial consultation.  You will be glad you did.