Employees in Pennsylvania have the right to a safe workplace. Unfortunately, some employers fail to meet this standard—and when workers speak up about unsafe conditions, they sometimes face retaliation. Knowing your rights is essential if you find yourself in this situation.

Understanding Workplace Safety Laws

Under both federal and Pennsylvania law, employers are required to maintain a safe and healthy workplace. The Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) protects workers who report unsafe conditions or refuse to work in situations that pose an imminent risk of serious injury or death.

If you report unsafe conditions to your employer, OSHA, or another agency, your employer cannot legally retaliate against you. Retaliation includes firing, demotion, reduced hours, harassment, or other disciplinary actions tied to your complaint.

What Counts as an Unsafe Work Condition?

Unsafe conditions may include:

• Exposure to hazardous chemicals or materials
• Broken or malfunctioning equipment
• Lack of proper safety gear or training
• Poor air quality or ventilation
• Overcrowded or unsanitary workspaces

If you raise these concerns in good faith, you are protected under whistleblower laws—even if the investigation later finds no violation.

What to Do If You Experience Retaliation

If you believe you were fired or punished for reporting unsafe conditions, you can file a whistleblower or retaliation complaint with OSHA or the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry. You typically have 30 days from the retaliatory action to file a federal complaint, so acting quickly is vital.

Protecting Your Rights with Legal Help

At The Lovitz Law Firm, we help Philadelphia workers stand up for their rights and pursue justice when employers retaliate against them for speaking out. Our legal team can help you gather evidence, file your claim, and fight for fair compensation or reinstatement.