People working in the construction industry understand the inherent risks of building a new structure. Their job pays well because it can be so dangerous at times. Knowing your rights when it comes to a construction accident in the springtime is vital to your future. Whether you’re lifting heavy loads, encountering high levels of electricity, or handling heavy machinery, you do have a right to be safe and secure.
Right to a Safe Workplace
Under the required federal workplace safety standards, put in place by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), you have a right to a safe environment. Employers are obligated to protect their workers from safety hazards while on the job. In the construction industry, this may seem difficult.
OSHA requires employers to:
- Limit exposure to toxic waste or chemicals
- Provide protection from falls
- Prevent excavation cave-ins
- Protect workers from high noise levels
- Put proper safety measures on machinery
- Avoid exposure to asbestos, lead, and worse substances
Right to Report
If you, as a construction worker, notice any serious hazard on a job site, you are well within your rights to report the unsafe conditions to OSHA. While filing an official complaint, you may ask OSHA officials to inspect the workplace.
Furthermore, you are within your rights to speak with an OSHA representative privately. You may also choose to walk with the inspector during the job site inspection or meet with the inspector beforehand. Your employer may not choose to retaliate or discriminate against you for taking advantage of these rights. It is both illegal and immoral.
Right to Compensation Benefits
Should you be injured on a job site, it is your right to receive compensation benefits from an insurance provider, no matter who is at fault for the accident. These funds will cover your medical expenses and pay a portion of lost wages.
Contact Us
If you were the victim of a workplace incident, or have noticed any unsafe working conditions, take action! Contact the Todd Durham Law Firm by calling (214) 222-4000 today!
