Under the OSH Act, most U.S. workers have the right to a safe workplace, to receive safety training in a language and vocabulary they understand, to access certain injury and exposure records, to report hazards or file a complaint with OSHA, and to be protected from retaliation for doing so. Learn your job’s hazards, use required PPE and speak up.
Your rights as a worker
The Occupational Safety and Health Act gives most private-sector workers (and public-sector workers in states with OSHA-approved plans) the right to:
- A workplace free from recognized serious hazards
- Receive safety training in a language and vocabulary they understand
- Review records of work-related injuries and illnesses and access their own exposure and medical records
- Report hazards and file a confidential complaint asking OSHA to inspect
- Be protected from retaliation for exercising these rights (retaliation complaints generally must be filed with OSHA within 30 days)
Common hazards by industry
| Industry | Common hazards |
|---|---|
| Construction | Falls, struck-by, electrocution, caught-in/between (trenches) |
| Warehousing | Forklifts, lifting injuries, falling loads |
| Healthcare | Needlesticks, patient lifting, infections, workplace violence |
| Manufacturing | Machine guarding, lockout/tagout, noise, chemicals |
| Transportation | Vehicle crashes, fatigue, loading injuries |
PPE basics
Personal protective equipment is the last line of defense, after eliminating hazards and using engineering and administrative controls. Common PPE includes hard hats, safety glasses, gloves, hearing protection, high-visibility clothing, respirators and fall protection. Employers generally must provide required PPE and train you to use it.
How to report a hazard
- Tell your supervisor or safety contact and describe the hazard specifically.
- Use your company’s reporting system or safety committee.
- If the hazard isn’t addressed, you can contact OSHA.
Training that helps you get hired
- OSHA 10: Introductory safety training for entry-level workers in construction or general industry
- OSHA 30: More in-depth training for supervisors and workers with safety responsibilities
- Job-specific training: Such as forklift, HAZWOPER, first aid/CPR and confined space
OSHA Outreach cards (10- and 30-hour) are offered through OSHA-authorized trainers; ask your employer, union or local community college where to take them. If your job is driving a forklift, forklift operator training covers the formal instruction OSHA requires before your hands-on evaluation.
Frequently asked questions
Can I refuse unsafe work?
In limited circumstances involving imminent danger, workers may have a right to refuse. The conditions are specific: learn more from OSHA and talk to your supervisor first when possible.
Is OSHA 10 required?
Federal OSHA doesn’t require OSHA 10 for all workers, but some states, cities, employers and job sites require it.
Careers mentioned in this guide
- Occupational Safety Specialist: Find workplace hazards, train workers and keep companies compliant with OSHA.
- Construction Laborer: Prepare sites, move materials, pour concrete and support every trade on the job.
- Hazardous Materials Technician: Safely remove and clean up asbestos, lead, chemicals and other hazardous materials.
- Forklift Operator: Move, stack and load materials safely with forklifts and other powered trucks.
- Electrician: Install, maintain and repair electrical wiring, panels and equipment safely to code.
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