Indiana OSHA Act

February 8th, 2002 Posted by Jane

The Indiana Occupational Safety and Health Act assures, as far as possible, safe and healthful working conditions for workers. Employers must establish and maintain a reasonably safe and healthful workplace for employees, and employees must comply with occupational safety and health standards and all safety rules, regulations, and orders.

I understand that there are some exceptions to the Indiana OSHA: workers hired for domestic service in or about a private home, and employees of a federal agency. Other exemptions include employees in maritime services, who are covered by U.S. Department of Labor, and employees in atomic energy activities who are covered by the Atomic Energy Commission.

Employees and their representatives are allowed to bring possible safety and health violations to the attention of The Department of Labor Inspector. The department will carry out an inspection where reasonable grounds exist for hazardous conditions.

It is against the law for an employer to discharge, suspend, or otherwise discriminate in terms of conditions of employment against any employees for their failure or refusal to engage in unsafe practices or for filing a complaint, testifying or otherwise acting to exercise their rights.

Employees who believe they have been discriminated against may file a complaint with The Department of Labor within 30 days of the alleged discrimination.

Violations of OSHA will cost employers a lot, according to what I read. Each violation will incur civil penalties of not more than $7,000 for each violation Also, any employer who knowingly or repeatedly violates the Act may be assessed civil penalties of not more than $70,000 for each violation.

Employers and employees are encouraged to reduce workplace hazards voluntarily and to develop and improve safety and health programs in all workplaces and industries. Such cooperative action would initially focus on the identification and elimination of hazards that could cause death, injury, or illness to employees and supervisors.

The law provides a consultation service to assist in voluntary compliance and to give recommendations for the abatement of cited violations. This service is available upon a written request from the employer to the Bureau of Safety, Education and Training.

I know that employers must post an Indiana OSHA poster that shows that they value employees safety. The Indiana Complete Labor Law poster is available detailing the OSHA act as well as all other Indiana labor laws.

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