The Occupational Safety and Health Administration

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) began when President Richard Nixon signed the federal Occupational Safety and Health Act (also called OSHA) in 1970. This act was written to ensure a reasonable level of safety in workplaces across the country. In addition to the federal act, 22 states (including Iowa) have passed their own workplace safety legislation.

The Iowa Occupational Safety and Health Administration is charged with the task of developing and enforcing standards of workplace safety. Almost all of the employers in our state are in its jurisdiction, with the exception of federal agencies and some maritime businesses. To learn about the rights guaranteed to you by OSHA, contact the Des Moines workers’ compensation lawyers of LaMarca & Landry, P.C. at 877-327-2600.

How OSHA Protects You

If your employer is failing to meet legal workplace health regulations, you have the option of filing a complaint with Iowa’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration. You may make this complaint on your own, with other employees, or with the help of a representative.

To make a complaint, you will need to contact the Iowa Division of Labor. There is a form to be completed and submitted by mail or fax. After your complaint has been processed, the state will send an inspector to investigate your workplace. If any problems are found, they should be corrected and your employer may face legal consequences.

By law, employers cannot retaliate against employees who complain to OSHA. Sadly, the system does not always work the way it is meant to. If you have any concerns about protecting your rights in the workplace, our Des Moines workplace safety lawyers can help.

Contact Us

You do not need to tolerate safety violations at your place of work. To begin fighting back against negligent employers, contact the Des Moines workplace injury attorneys of LaMarca & Landry, P.C. at 877-327-2600.