How Do Arizona Workers Report Unsafe Workplaces?
If you are a worker in Arizona, there are laws and regulations in place for your protection that your employer must follow. Unfortunately, some employers ignore these safety measures to save on costs, putting everyone at a worksite at risk.
If you believe your employer has overlooked important precautions put in place to guarantee the safety of you and your co-workers, you may want to contact the Industrial Commission of Arizona. Under the Arizona Occupational Safety and Health Act, you can request that your worksite be inspected by the Division of Occupation Safety and Health. An inspection will be conducted on two conditions:
- If an employee believes that a violation of safety or health standards exists and threatens physical harm; and
- The employee believes that an imminent danger exists.
To request an inspection, you will need to fill out a Notice of Alleged Safety or Health Hazards form, and submit it to the Director of the Division. You will need to fully describe the hazard(s) that you believe exist at the worksite, and include the number of employees that have been exposed to the hazard(s). You will also need to specify each location where the hazard(s) exist, among other information. Note: Unless you specify that you do not want it to be, your name will be revealed to your employer.
Once the Director receives your notice, they will determine whether there are reasonable grounds to believe that a violation or danger exists at your worksite. If they decide that a violation or danger exists, under the Occupational Safety and Health Act, they will conduct a special investigation “as soon as practicable.” However, if the Director decides there aren’t reasonable grounds to believe that a violation or danger exists at your worksite, they will provide you with written notice.
If you have been injured at an unsafe workplace in Arizona, you have legal rights. The Phoenix accident attorneys at The Breyer Law Offices P.C. have protected the rights of injured Arizona workers, including those who work at construction sites, for many years, and can help you understand what your legal rights and options are following a workplace injury. Call us at 602-978-6400 to schedule a free consultation today.
