What should an employee do if they experience discrimination after refusing to work?

• A. Ignore the discrimination
• B. Contact OSHA directly
• C. File a complaint with the labor union only
• D. Report to a supervisor not involved in the incident

Answer: (B)

When you exercise your right to refuse unsafe work, you are protected from retaliation or discrimination for that action. If discrimination occurs, reporting it to OSHA is the proper step because OSHA’s Whistleblower Protection Program investigates retaliation and can take action to stop the discriminatory behavior and protect your rights. This ensures the issue is handled through an official enforcement process, which is designed to deter employers from retaliating against workers who speak up about safety. Ignoring the behavior won’t stop it and could leave you unprotected. Relying on a labor union alone may provide support, but it doesn’t guarantee OSHA investigation or remedies. Reporting to a supervisor not involved in the incident might not address the retaliation or provide the necessary protection and remedies.