The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), a section of the Department of Labor, sets guidelines that employers must follow. Employers must provide a workplace free of recognized hazards and display the official OSHA poster of rights and responsibilities in a conspicuous place. Employers must also establish a written hazard communication plan that includes employee training.

If an employee spots a hazardous condition or violation that is not being corrected, he or she should contact a local OSHA office through a written complaint. The office will conduct an investigation if they think it is warranted. A workers’ representative may accompany an OSHA officer during the inspection. The representative will be chosen by the union or employees—not the employer. After the inspection has finished, the OSHA officer will meet with the employer and representative to discuss any hazards that were found.