What do you do if your boss refuses to prioritize workplace safety?

1 Know your rights

The first step is to know your rights as a worker. Depending on your location, industry, and contract, you may have different laws and regulations that govern workplace safety standards and practices. You can consult your union, your human resources department, or a legal advisor to find out what your rights are, and what your boss is required to do to ensure a safe and healthy work environment. You may also have access to a workplace safety committee, a health and safety representative, or a whistleblower protection program that can help you voice your concerns and report any violations.

2 Document the issues

The second step is to document the issues that affect workplace safety. This can include taking photos, videos, or notes of any hazards, accidents, injuries, or near misses that occur in your workplace. You should also keep a record of any communication you have with your boss or management about workplace safety, such as emails, memos, or meetings. This can help you establish a timeline and evidence of the problems, and how your boss has responded or failed to respond to them.

3 Report the issues

The third step is to report the issues to the appropriate authorities. This can include your internal workplace safety committee or representative, your union, your human resources department, or an external agency such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) or the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). You should follow the proper procedures and protocols for reporting workplace safety issues, and provide as much detail and documentation as possible. You should also keep a copy of your report and any follow-up actions or responses.

4 Seek support

The fourth step is to seek support from your coworkers, your family, your friends, or a professional counselor. Dealing with a boss who refuses to prioritize workplace safety can be stressful, frustrating, and demoralizing. You may feel isolated, angry, or afraid. You may also experience physical or mental health issues as a result of the unsafe work conditions. You should not have to cope with this situation alone. You should reach out to people who can offer you emotional, practical, or legal support, and who can help you protect your well-being and your rights.

5 Plan your next move

The fifth step is to plan your next move. Depending on the outcome of your reporting and the severity of the workplace safety issues, you may have to decide whether to stay or leave your job. You may also have to consider whether to take legal action against your boss or your employer for negligence, discrimination, retaliation, or wrongful termination. You should weigh the pros and cons of each option, and consult a legal advisor or a career counselor if needed. You should also prepare yourself for any potential consequences or challenges that may arise from your decision.

6 Take action

The sixth and final step is to take action. Whatever you decide to do, you should do it with confidence and conviction. You should not let your boss intimidate, manipulate, or silence you. You should not compromise your safety, health, or dignity for your job. You should stand up for yourself and your coworkers, and demand a safe and respectful work environment. You should also remember that you are not alone, and that you have the right to seek justice and compensation for any harm or loss you have suffered.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?