Worker Rights and Responsibilities

Rights of Workers – USA 

As a Worker, you have the right to:

• A safe and healthy workplace.
• Raise a safety or health concern with your Employer or OSHA, or report a work-related injury or illness, without being retaliated against.
• Receive information and training on job hazards, including all hazardous substances in your workplace.
• Request an OSHA inspection of your workplace if you believe there are unsafe or unhealthy conditions. OSHA will keep your name confidential. You have the right to have a representative contact OSHA on your behalf.
• Participate (or have your representative participate) in an OSHA inspection and speak in private to the inspector.
• File a complaint with OSHA within 30 days if you have been retaliated against for using your rights.
• See any OSHA citations issued to your employer.
• Request copies of your medical records, tests that measure hazards in the workplace, and the workplace injury and illness log.

Responsibilities of Workers

As a Worker, you have the responsibility to:

• Read the OSHA poster in your workplace.
• Attend an orientation training session prior to commencing work.
• Read, understand and comply with the Qualico Safety and Health Program and comply with all OSHA standards.
• Develop or take part in hazard assessment as required.
• Assist in the development of Safe Work Practices and Safe Job Procedures.
• Review and follow all necessary Safe Work Practices and Safe Job Procedures.
• Understand the HAZCOM standard and follow Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for the controlled products that you are using.
• Wear the Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), devices, and clothing required by Legislation.
• Report all unsafe conditions, near misses, incidents and injuries to your Supervisor as soon as possible.
• Take every reasonable precaution to protect yourself and the safety of other workers.
• Co-operate with Supervisors to the best of your ability.
• Contact your Supervisor if you are unsure of a procedure. If you think the work is unsafe you must refuse to do it and inform your Supervisor. Ensure corrective action is taken prior to resuming work.
• Work in conscientious manner and with regards for the safety and health of yourself and other workers who may be affected by your actions. Maintain a safe work environment at all times.
• Maintain good housekeeping at all times.
• Only perform tasks that you are qualified/trained for.
• Know the location and use of all first aid, emergency, and safe equipment on the Work Site. If you are trained in first aid you may be needed for the Emergency Response Plan.
• Be familiar with the Emergency Response Plan.
• Attend and actively participate in all health and safety meetings, as required.
• Take your safety responsibilities seriously; everyone is affected by your actions.