How To File an OSHA Complaint

Posted On: February 5, 2026

OSHA reports that in 2023, there were 5,283 fatal work injuries, which is about 3.5 fatalities per 100,000 full-time equivalent workers. However, a randomized study by CLEAR found that firms that received OSHA inspections experienced about a 9.4% decline in injury rates and a 26% reduction in injury costs compared to matched firms not inspected. 

Every worker has the right to a safe workplace. Under federal law, employers must provide a work environment free from recognized health and safety hazards. But what if your job site isn’t safe or your employer ignores a serious hazard?

In this blog, we’ll explain when, where, and how to file a complaint with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), what your rights are, and what to expect after you file.

Who Can File an OSHA Complaint? 

Any current or former employee, or their representative, has the right to file a safety and health complaint with OSHA. 

You have the legal right to report unsafe or unhealthy working conditions, and to do so without fear of retaliation. OSHA encourages workers to first notify their employer about hazards whenever possible, as this often resolves issues quickly.

If you believe there’s an imminent danger that could cause serious injury or death, you may have the right to refuse the work until the hazard is corrected. 

All the following conditions must be met for that protection to apply:

You’ve asked your employer to fix the hazard, and they failed to act.

You genuinely believe the danger is real and immediate.

A reasonable person would agree there’s a serious threat of harm.

There isn’t enough time to eliminate the danger through normal enforcement channels.

If your employer retaliates against you for reporting a hazard or refusing dangerous work, contact OSHA immediately. You can file a whistleblower (retaliation) complaint, which is separate from a standard safety complaint. 

Know Your Rights: Retaliation Protection 

It’s illegal for employers to retaliate against workers who report safety concerns or cooperate with OSHA investigations. Retaliation can include firing, demotion, reduced hours, reassignment, or threats. 

If this happens, file a whistleblower complaint as soon as possible. Visit OSHA’s Whistleblower Protection page to learn more about deadlines and procedures. 

What Qualifies for an OSHA Complaint? 

Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, you can file a complaint if: 

You believe workplace conditions are unsafe or unhealthy.

You think your employer isn’t following OSHA standards.

It’s best to file as soon as you become aware of the hazard. OSHA can only issue citations for violations that exist now or that existed within the last six months. 

If you were punished or threatened for reporting safety issues, you may also file a retaliation complaint under OSHA’s whistleblower protection laws. Deadlines for these vary from 30 to 180 days, depending on the specific law.

But can I file an OSHA complaint anonymously? Yes, complaints can be made anonymously, and OSHA will keep your identity confidential if requested. 

Examples of Unsafe Conditions

Unsafe working conditions can exist in any industry, from construction and manufacturing to offices and healthcare facilities. Here are some common examples that may justify filing an OSHA complaint: 

1. Physical Hazards

Blocked emergency exits or locked fire doors that prevent a quick escape.

Slippery or cluttered floors causing slip, trip, or fall hazards.

Poor lighting in stairwells, hallways, or work areas.

Exposed electrical wiring or overloaded power outlets.

Broken or missing machine guards that expose workers to moving parts.

Unsafe ladders or scaffolding that are not properly secured or inspected.

Excessive noise levels without proper hearing protection.

2. Chemical Hazards

Improper storage or labeling of chemicals such as cleaning agents, paints, or solvents.

Lack of ventilation in areas where toxic fumes or dust are present.

Absence of required safety data sheets (SDS) for hazardous substances.

Spills or leaks that aren’t cleaned up promptly or safely.

Failure to provide personal protective equipment (PPE) like gloves, masks, or respirators.

3. Biological Hazards

Exposure to infectious materials without adequate PPE (especially in healthcare or lab environments).

Mold growth due to poor ventilation or water damage.

Unsanitary conditions, such as contaminated restrooms or break areas.

Presence of pests or rodents that create health risks.

4. Ergonomic Hazards

Repetitive motion tasks without ergonomic breaks or equipment adjustments.

Improper workstation setup leading to neck, back, or wrist strain.

Heavy lifting without training or lifting aids.

Prolonged standing or awkward postures required to perform tasks.

5. Safety Management and Training Failures

Lack of safety training for machinery, fall protection, or chemical handling.

No clear emergency plan or drills for fires, spills, or severe weather.

Failure to report or record workplace injuries as required by OSHA.

Supervisors ignoring complaints about hazards or pressuring employees to work unsafely.

6. Workplace Violence and Harassment Risks

Absence of policies or procedures to prevent violence, bullying, or threats.

Inadequate security in high-risk locations such as hospitals, retail stores, or night shifts.

Failure to address verbal or physical harassment that creates a hostile environment.

7. Environmental and Outdoor Hazards

Extreme heat or cold exposure without adequate breaks, shade, or hydration.

Inadequate protection from falls when working at heights (e.g., missing harnesses or guardrails).

Unsafe trenching or excavation sites without proper shoring or slope protection.

Working near live traffic without warning signs, barriers, or reflective gear.

How to File an OSHA Complaint 

You can file an OSHA complaint in several ways:

1. Online

Complete OSHA’s Online Complaint Form and provide as much detail as possible, including:

Employer name and address

Description of the hazard(s)

When and where the issue occurred

How many employees are exposed

Online complaints are reviewed quickly, but if there’s an emergency or life-threatening situation, do not use the form; call OSHA right away. 

2. By Mail, Email, or Fax 

Download, fill out, and submit OSHA’s complaint form to your nearest OSHA or state-plan office. Signed written complaints are considered “formal” and are more likely to trigger an on-site inspection. 

3. By Phone 

Call 1-800-321-OSHA (6742) or your local OSHA area office to speak with a representative. If you need to report an imminent danger, call immediately. OSHA can take your complaint in any language. 

What Happens After You File? 

Once OSHA receives your complaint, they’ll review it and determine the appropriate response:

Phone/Fax Inquiry: For non-serious or easily resolvable hazards, OSHA may contact the employer by phone or letter to correct the issue.

On-Site Inspection: For formal or severe complaints, OSHA may send a compliance officer to inspect the workplace.

You’ll be informed of OSHA’s findings and any actions taken. If you requested confidentiality, your name will not be shared with your employer. 

Take Charge of Your Workplace Safety With OSHA Campus by 360training 

Knowing your rights can make all the difference. If you believe your workplace is unsafe, take action. OSHA is there to protect you. To learn more about workplace safety standards and your responsibilities, enroll in OSHA Outreach Training on OSHA Campus by 360training:

OSHA 10-Hour Construction

OSHA 30-Hour Construction

Empower yourself with the knowledge to stay safe, protect your coworkers, and build a safer workplace. 