Who enforces OSHA's whistleblower protections?

• A. OSHA
• B. The employer only
• C. The union
• D. The state police

Answer: (A)

The concept being tested is who enforces OSHA's whistleblower protections. OSHA is the agency that handles whistleblower complaints from workers who report safety and health violations or participate in related inspections, and it can order remedies if retaliation is found. The employer cannot be the enforcer and retaliation is prohibited, with OSHA stepping in to investigate and provide relief such as reinstatement or back pay when warranted. The union may support workers, but it does not itself enforce these protections. The state police do not enforce OSHA’s whistleblower protections; enforcement is handled by OSHA, or by state OSHA programs in states with approved plans under OSHA guidance.