Which statement best describes the protection for a worker who refuses dangerous work?

• A. They may be demoted
• B. They are protected as long as criteria are met
• C. They lose pay until the hazard is resolved
• D. They must transfer to a safe department

Answer: (B)

Not performing dangerous work is protected when a worker has a reasonable belief that a task presents imminent danger and they follow the proper procedures to report the hazard and await correction. If those criteria are met, the worker cannot be punished, demoted, or have pay docked for refusing the task—the protection lasts while the hazard is being addressed or until a safe alternative is provided. The employer must investigate and fix the hazard or reassign the worker to a safe task if available. This protection exists specifically to ensure workers can speak up about real hazards without fear of retaliation.