Construction workers have the right to work in safe, hazard-free environments. California has workplace safety laws that are enforced by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) at state and federal levels. OSHA outlines the rights and responsibilities that are provided to all types of construction workers.
Construction workers’ rights
According to OSHA, construction workers have the primary right to review a complete list of their rights and expectations. They are entitled to view the company’s policies about providing safety in the workplace. As employees, they have the right to know how the employer handles an injury and how they can access the workers’ compensation program.
Construction workers are allowed to voice their opinions about workplace hazards. They are allowed to ask for safer work conditions without fear of retaliation from coworkers or the employer. They are given resources to report unsafe conditions while protecting their anonymity.
Legal protections
OSHA protects workers from construction accidents that are mostly preventable. Providing workers’ rights allows employers and employees to work together to reduce the rates of accidents. Employees are more likely to complain of unsafe and unfair conditions on construction sites. Having rights also increases their willingness to pursue their legal matters in court.
The OSHA provides special rules and regulations for workers in construction and labor industries. They are guaranteed basic rights to a safe workplace that are protected by federal and state laws. They have the right to challenge an employer’s practices, report hazards to safety organizations and file personal injury claims after an accident occurs. Part of their responsibilities is to prevent accidents and ensure that they never occur again.