logo

Call Now:

(312) 609-0400

24/7
Call Us for Free Consultation

Call Now: (312) 609-0400

Search
Close this search box.

Employees Have a Right to Report Workplace Injuries and Illnesses

Physical injury on a worker's head in the workplace

or fill out the Contact Form

Fear of retaliation is the main reason workplace injuries are under-reported by workers in the United States, but employees have the right to report accidents that occur at work without worrying about any repercussions that might follow. The Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that as many as 69 percents of workplace injuries and illnesses may not be reported.

Physical injury on a worker's head in the workplace

Why Workers Fail to Report Workplace Injuries and Illnesses

In one study, workers who chose not to report their workplace injuries were asked why they made that choice. Some noted that the injury was too small for concern. For some, the desire not to be labeled as a “complainer” kept them from reporting. Others feared they would lose their jobs or opportunities for future advancement. Some reported they could not afford to take time off to visit the doctor for their injuries.
These are serious problems that need to be addressed, because workplace injuries and illnesses affect the injured person, coworkers, and workplace safety as a whole. When workers do not feel safe reporting their injuries, they may not get the treatment they need to effectively do their jobs after an injury. This puts everyone at risk.

Clear Reporting Guidelines Are Required

To improve the rate at which employees report injuries, OSHA made a ruling that requires employers to have a clear, easy to follow a process in place for reporting. The process must not be too confusing or be set up so that it deters employees from reporting.

Anti-Retaliation Protections Help Protect Workers

OSHA has protections in place that prevent employers from discriminating against workers who report a workplace injury. According to current OSHA guidelines, employers cannot discriminate against, fire, or retaliate against a worker for any reporting. If the employee feels that discrimination has occurred, OSHA allows for the filing of a complaint under the Whistleblower Act. Many employees will work with a workplace injury lawyer to make this complaint.
Retaliation is not tolerated, and employees have the right to file a claim for work-related accidents. By ensuring that employees do this, everyone can keep today’s workplaces safer while ensuring employees get the treatment they need for a full recovery from a workplace accident or work-related illness.

Share This Article

As the founder of the firm, Neal has devoted his life to working for the worker. His achievements are numerous and beyond reproach. He is most proud of his work in helping clients obtain valuable benefits, such as a wheelchair ramp to his home or lifetime medical care.

or fill out the Contact Form

As the founder of the firm, Neal has devoted his life to working for the worker. His achievements are numerous and beyond reproach. He is most proud of his work in helping clients obtain valuable benefits, such as a wheelchair ramp to his home or lifetime medical care.

Related Articles

Construction worker has an accident while working on new house. Most common workplace injuries
Workers' Compensation

10 Most Common Workplace Injuries in Chicago, Illinois

Workplace injuries occur daily in nearly all types of jobs. Some workplace injuries are minor and heal within a short time. Others are severe and life-threatening, leaving the injured worker with permanent disabilities, emotional trauma, and financial difficulties. Most workplace injuries can be prevented by prioritizing safety. Unfortunately, a 2021 Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) report shows that 102,000 and 22,700 non-fatal work injuries and illnesses occurred in Illinois private and public industries respectively.

Businessman suffering from wrist pain in office. Workers' comp nerve damage settlement
Workers' Compensation

How Much Is a Workers’ Comp Nerve Damage Settlement?

You may need to know the value of a workers’ comp nerve damage settlement if you or a loved one suffered a work-related injury that caused nerve damage. It is hard to determine the actual amount of a workers’ comp nerve damage settlement in Chicago, Illinois, because each case is unique. Consequently, each settlement may vary depending on the specifics of your case.

Doctor helping manual worker with an arm injury at the metal industry factory. Indirect costs for workplace accidents
Workers' Compensation

What Are the Indirect Costs for Workplace Accidents in Chicago, Illinois?

The indirect costs for workplace accidents in Chicago, Illinois, are uninsured and unbudgeted expenses, including productivity loss and downtime. Other examples include increased insurance premiums, damage to the company’s reputation, and loss of employee morale.

Get a FREE Consultation:
We want to earn your business.

    Lawyers logos
    Lawyers logos