People across the state spend a significant amount of their time every week at their place of employment. Some individuals work in occupations or industries that may increase their risk of harm or exposure to hazardous substances. Many of these injuries and illnesses can be avoided if employers follow proper safety procedures.
If you were injured at work due to your employer’s negligence, it is crucial to explore your legal options. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) can penalize business owners who neglect workplace safety. These penalties may result in increased workers’ compensation premiums or employee civil lawsuits. Local and federal laws aim to protect you from unsafe working conditions. A courageous workers’ compensation attorney at Smith Hulsey Law could assist you in holding your employer accountable when they neglect workplace safety in Gainesville.
OSHA strives to improve work environment safety for employees throughout the country by setting minimum requirements that all employers must meet to foster a safe workplace. If an employee believes that their employer is not following safety regulations, they can file an OSHA complaint. However, before filing a complaint, the worker must have already voiced their concerns to management. OSHA may then inspect the job site and assign a compliance officer who will likely request to speak with the employee for more information.
While other states may impose additional measures beyond federal workplace safety requirements, Georgia enforces local laws to safeguard workers. For example, the Georgia Workers’ Compensation Act requires employers with three or more employees to provide workers’ compensation coverage. Although the Georgia Department of Labor (GDOL) is not equivalent to OSHA, it ensures the proper handling of workplace injury reports and workers’ compensation claims. A seasoned Gainesville attorney who is well-versed in workplace safety could inform someone of their rights and advise them on the next steps.
Injuries can occur in any industry, making it essential for employees to access benefits available through workers’ compensation. When an injury results from inadequate workplace conditions, legal action may be necessary. Smith Hulsey Law has extensive experience assisting injured individuals with the workers’ compensation process. Under state law, people injured due to another person’s negligence are entitled to pursue compensation for medical expenses and lost income, particularly in industries such as poultry processing and manufacturing, where injuries are more common.
Employees should feel comfortable to report workplace safety neglect without fear of retribution. However, some employers may take retaliatory actions following a report, such as reducing hours, changing responsibilities, or even termination. Our tenacious lawyers could defend a worker experiencing retaliation for exercising their rights and trying to protect their well-being. We fight vigorously to ensure that people who come forward about work environment safety in Gainesville are protected under the law.
Your place of employment should be a safe space to pursue your career and provide for your family without fearing for your safety. Unfortunately, not all workplaces prioritize safety, putting their employees at risk of injuries, illnesses, and even death. Speaking with a proficient attorney could help you understand what constitutes workplace safety in Gainesville, protecting your rights and well-being. Call Smith Hulsey Law today to schedule a consultation.
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