How to Address Wrongful Termination for Reporting Workplace Toxins

 Posted on October 18, 2023 in Workplace Discrimination

For employees who work in steel mills or other industrial settings, workplace safety is crucial. Employees deserve to address any concerns about workplace safety, including possible harm they may suffer after being exposed to toxic chemicals or other substances. Employees may also report any violations of the law by their employers, such as emissions laws that have been violated by the release of toxic substances into the environment. However, in some cases, employees who blow the whistle on these issues may face wrongful termination. This form of employment discrimination is illegal. Employees who have faced retaliation after engaging in legal activities will need to understand their rights and their legal options. They can do so with the help of an attorney who has experience in these types of cases.

An Employee's Right to Address Safety Issues

All employees have the right to work in a safe environment that is free from harmful substances and dangerous conditions. When employees become aware of hazardous working conditions caused by toxic substances, or if they learn that their employer has violated emission laws or other regulations, they should be encouraged to report these issues promptly without fear of retaliation.

In Pennsylvania, both state and federal laws protect employees who report workplace safety concerns. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) ensures that employees can voice their concerns regarding unsafe working conditions without facing adverse employment actions such as termination or demotion.

Whistleblowers are protected if they engage in the following activities:

• Provide information to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) about violations of the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA).

• Testify in legal proceedings related to these violations.

• Refuse to work in conditions that are unsafe due to the presence of toxic substances and the failure by an employer to take the necessary measures to protect employees from harm.

Whistleblower Protections Under Pennsylvania Law

The state of Pennsylvania recognizes the importance of protecting whistleblowers who report illegal activities related to environmental protection or other violations of the law. Under Pennsylvania law, the following protections are provided for whistleblowers:

• Protection from retaliation: Employers are prohibited from terminating, demoting, or otherwise retaliating against employees who report violations of environmental laws or any other forms of wrongdoing, including the waste of resources.

• Protection from discrimination: Employers are prohibited from retaliating against employees or engaging in other forms of discrimination because an employee agrees to participate in regulatory investigations or legal hearings related to environmental laws or other regulations.

Contacting an Attorney After Wrongful Termination

If you believe that you have been wrongfully terminated in Pennsylvania for reporting workplace toxins or violations of emission laws, it is crucial to seek legal guidance immediately. Contacting an experienced employment attorney who understands the protections that are available to whistleblowers can help safeguard your rights and ensure that justice is served.

At Colianni & Leonard LLC, our dedicated attorneys understand the complexities surrounding wrongful termination cases. We can help you address the financial and personal harm you have suffered due to retaliation from your employer. We will work with you to pursue compensation for your financial losses, seek to have you reinstated to your former position, or put other measures in place to address the ways you have been affected by a wrongful termination.

Contact Our Allegheny County Wrongful Termination Lawyers

If you have faced wrongful termination due to reporting safety issues in the workplace or emissions violations in Pennsylvania, Colianni & Leonard LLC can help you understand your legal options. Our Wexford workplace discrimination attorneys will fight tirelessly to protect your rights and seek proper compensation on your behalf. We understand the gravity of these situations, and we are here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us at 412-680-7877 to schedule a free consultation.