South Dakota construction contractor (Valley Springs)

OSHA filed a lawsuit in federal court seeking reinstatement of the employee, payment of back wages with interest, compensation for emotional distress, and punitive damages. The case demonstrates OSHA's commitment to protecting workers who report safety concerns from retaliation by their employers.

Summary

The U.S. Department of Labor filed suit against a Valley Springs, South Dakota construction contractor for wrongfully terminating an employee who reported a severe work-related injury. OSHA's Whistleblower Protection Program investigated and found the termination violated federal whistleblower protections.

Violation Details

The employee suffered a severe work-related injury and reported it to management as required. Shortly after reporting the injury, the employer terminated the employee in retaliation for making the report. This action violates Section 11(c) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act, which prohibits employers from retaliating against employees for exercising their rights under the law, including reporting workplace injuries.

Outcome

OSHA filed a lawsuit in federal court seeking reinstatement of the employee, payment of back wages with interest, compensation for emotional distress, and punitive damages. The case demonstrates OSHA's commitment to protecting workers who report safety concerns from retaliation by their employers.