Employers Vs. Employees in Workplace Safety

Safety in the workplace can be a struggle for many employers to comply with the required regulations while turning in a profit. Employees want to do their job well while keeping safety their primary concern.

History

• The Occupational Health and Safety Administration sets standards for workplace safety. It began as the Occupational Safety and Health Act, signed into law on December 9, 1970 by President Richard Nixon. One of the first safety standards regulated by the department was for asbestos fibers.

Misconceptions

• Myths about OSHA may contribute to employer hesitancy in complying with standards. According to Ronald E. Koons, co-owner of RoSako Safety, one myth is that OSHA is self-funded and needs money collected from fines to survive. Koons also writes that some employers have the misconception that they can avoid citations by inviting OSHA to inspect their workplaces.

Employer Fines

• In March 2010, OSHA's Assistant Secretary, David Michaels testified before the U.S. Congress on behalf of increasing penalties for employers who don't follow worker safety protection rules. Michaels stated that OSHA's current penalties do not provide incentives large enough for many employers to comply. Employers are fined a maximum civil penalty of $7,000 for each serious worker safety violation.

Solutions

• Workers are entitled to working conditions that do not pose a risk of serious harm, says OSHA. Employees with concerns about their workplace have the right to contact OSHA about those concerns without fear of employer retaliation.