Workers` Rights for Workforce Development Total Time: 1 hour, 30

Transcripción

Workers` Rights for Workforce Development Total Time: 1 hour, 30
Unit 7 – Worker Health and Safety
UNIT
Photograph by Robert L. Simpson
7
Workers’ Rights
for Workforce
Development
Total Time:
1 hour,
30 minutes
Worker Health
and Safety
“One of my friends got fired. He was having back problems from unloading trucks
with heavy stuff like toilets and sinks so they switched him to something easier till
he felt better for like one week. The next week he went back to unloading and then
he got a call from the agency he was working thru asking him not to return because
the warehouse said he was not meeting their performance when he was sure it was
because he made a report about his back. A friend of his warned him not to do a
report because people that did them would eventually get fired.”
– Job seeking client, April 2015
Copyright UIUC Labor Education Program, 2015
7-1
Workers’ Rights for Workforce Development
WORKERS’ RIGHTS FOR WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
Purpose
Publication Date
This curriculum is based on learning in social, cooperative and
active ways, with students’ questions and concerns as the center
focus. The teacher is a facilitator who inspires students to analyze,
look for equality, find history, and speak in a strong and informed
voice. Our goal is to help you, as workforce development staff,
engage your students in learning that they have rights and that
there are resources accessible to them for help in protecting
those rights. They are not alone and there is strength in numbers.
Workers and their struggles are making headline news every day
– from the Fight for $15 to striking school teachers to efforts to
extend overtime provisions to more Americans. Assistance can
come from fellow workers, unions and worker centers, lawyers and
government agencies at local, state and federal/national levels.
This Workers’ Rights for Workforce Development
Curriculum is current as of December 1, 2015.
As a wide range of organizations, both private and public, engage
in workforce development activities, this curriculum is flexible and
intended to be adapted to different kinds of programs, clients and
local environments. Within an organization, job roles may vary,
but we believe that learning workers’ rights is useful for all direct
service staff. As service staff learn more about workers’ rights,
they will see how their own work - as case managers, instructors,
business service representatives - can be more effective with clients
if they include workers’ rights.
Trainings
Disclaimer
The information contained within this curriculum is provided on an
“as is” basis for general educational purposes only; it should not
be construed in any way as giving business, legal, or other advice.
Individuals who use this information for any reasons other than for
general educational purposes do so at their own risk. All warranties
of any kind, express or implied, including fitness for a particular
purpose, are disclaimed. Neither the University of Illinois, nor any of
its units, programs, employees, agents or individual trustees, shall
be held liable for any improper or incorrect use of the information
contained within this curriculum. Also, none of these entities shall
be liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, exemplary, or
consequential damages however caused and on any theory of
liability, whether in contract, strict liability, or tort arising in any way
out of the use of the information contained within this curriculum.
Reference herein to any specific commercial products, process, or
service by trade name, trademark, manufacturer, or otherwise,
does not constitute or imply its endorsement, recommendation, or
favoring by the University of Illinois.
7-2
Preferred Citation
Authors: Alison Dickson, Sue Davenport, and
Marsha Love.
Workers’ Rights for Workforce Development: A
Practical Guide For Instructors and Job Seekers Illinois Edition. 1st edition.
Chicago: Labor Education Program, School of
Labor and Employment Relations, University of
Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 2015.
Contact us about leading training sessions
at your organization or agency.
Contact Information
Alison Dickson
Instructor, Labor Education Program
School of Labor and Employment Relations
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
(312) 996-2624
[email protected]
Copyright UIUC Labor Education Program, 2015
Unit 7 – Worker Health and Safety
PURPOSES FOR PARTICIPANTS
•Identify and document typical hazardous work environments
•Clarify basic legal rights to a healthy and safe workplace under the OSHA law
•Build workers’ self-confidence in reporting hazardous conditions
•Become familiar with resource organizations to help workers assert their rights to a safe
workplace
•Clarify basic rights to be compensated for work-related injuries and illness
ACTIVITIES
7-1. Intro: Has anyone ever worked in a dangerous job?
(15 min) Whole group gallery, discussion and comparison
7-2. What are your legal rights to work in a safe workplace?
(25 min) Quiz and whole group discussion
7-3. Choosing your job or your health?
(15 min) Whole group discussion, tip sheet and role-play
7-4. Who can help you if you work in a dangerous place?
(5 min) Lecture, Q& A and discussion
7-5. What should you do if you get hurt or injured at work?
(25 min) Whole group discussion, story, fact sheets and quiz
7-6. Conclusion
(5 min) Whole group storyboard review and Q&A
HANDOUTS
7-1. Illustrations of Hazardous Workplaces
7-2. List of Hazards in Workplace Illustrations
7-3. Types of Hazards
7-4a. OSHA Quiz (in English and en Español)
7-4b. OSHA Quiz Answers (in English and en Español)
7-5. OSHA Rights (from OSHA website)
7-6. OSHA Contact Information and Complaint Form
7-7. Tips for Talking to Your Boss
7-8a. Keeping Records
7-8b. Health and Safety Notes (blank)
7-8c. Health and Safety Notes (filled in)
7-9. Carlos’ Story (injured worker and workers’ comp)
7-10. 5 Things You Need to Know about Workers’ Comp
7-11a.Can These Workers File a Workers’ Comp Claim?
7-11b.Can These Workers File a Workers’ Comp Claim? (Answers)
7-12. How much is a Limb Worth?
7-13. Worker Rights Storyboard “B”
Copyright UIUC Labor Education Program, 2015
7-3
Workers’ Rights for Workforce Development
PREPARATION
•Photocopy handouts •Hang copies of Handout 7-1. Illustrations of Hazardous Workplaces
along the wall for use in Activity 7-1.
MATERIALS
Flip chart paper
Markers
RESOURCES
UFCW. “Your Right to a Safe Workplace”
http://safetyandhealth.ufcw.org/files/2015/02/OSHA-Rights-Spanish9Feb2015.pdf
Science Blogs. May 26, 2015. “Chicago organizers take on domestic
worker health and safety: ‘We start with the idea that everyone deserves
dignity and respect’”
http://scienceblogs.com/thepumphandle/2015/05/26/chicago-organizerstake-on-domestic-worker-health-and-safety-we-start-with-the-idea-thateveryone-deserves-dignity-and-respect/
NEW WORDS
Hazard – A danger
Photo by Jason Devaun
OSHA – Occupational
Safety and Health
Administration, the federal
government agency that
protects safety and health
on the job
Toxic – Poisonous, harmful
to the body
7-4
Copyright UIUC Labor Education Program, 2015
Unit 7 – Worker Health and Safety
Intro: Has anyone worked in a
dangerous job?
(15 min) Whole group gallery, discussion
and comparison
Activity
7-1
Gallery of Hazards
Hang copies of Handout 7-1. Illustrations of Hazardous Workplaces along
the wall.
Put washable markers nearby. As people enter the room, ask them to look at the
illustrations and use markers to put a check mark next to the hazards they see.
Choose one of the illustrations. Ask students to gather by the illustration and
to name the hazards they identified. Then hang the answers in Handout 7-2.
List of Hazards in Workplace Illustrations below the illustration. Ask students
to compare what they identified on the wall with the list of answers in the
illustration. If time permits, choose another illustration and review it with
students in the same way.
Photo by annonphotograpjy.com
Ask a couple of volunteers to share any experiences they have had of
working in a hazardous workplace. Pass out Handout 7-3. Types of Hazards.
Mention a few examples that may not have come up in the discussion.
Encourage people to review the chart at home, circling hazards that they have
experienced in their work life.
Copyright UIUC Labor Education Program, 2015
7-5
Workers’ Rights for Workforce Development
Handout 7-1. (page 1)
ILLUSTRATIONS OF HAZARDOUS WORKPLACES
Grocery Store
Source: Youth @ Work: Talking Safety
http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/talkingsafety/states/il/default.html
7-6
Copyright UIUC Labor Education Program, 2015
Unit 7 – Worker Health and Safety
Handout 7-1. (page 2)
ILLUSTRATIONS OF HAZARDOUS WORKPLACES
Office
Source: Youth @ Work: Talking Safety
http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/talkingsafety/states/il/default.html
Copyright UIUC Labor Education Program, 2015
7-7
Workers’ Rights for Workforce Development
Handout 7-1. (page 3)
ILLUSTRATIONS OF HAZARDOUS WORKPLACES
Gas Station
Source: Youth @ Work: Talking Safety
http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/talkingsafety/states/il/default.html
7-8
Copyright UIUC Labor Education Program, 2015
Unit 7 – Worker Health and Safety
Handout 7-1. (page 4)
ILLUSTRATIONS OF HAZARDOUS WORKPLACES
Fast Food
Source: Youth @ Work: Talking Safety
http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/talkingsafety/states/il/default.html
Copyright UIUC Labor Education Program, 2015
7-9
Workers’ Rights for Workforce Development
Handout 7-2. (page 1)
LIST OF HAZARDS IN WORKPLACE ILLUSTRATIONS
GROCERY STORE
Safety hazards:
•Electrical: electric cord near faucet
•Sharp object: meat cleaver
•Crowded work area: aisle not clear
•Spray bottle on sink. It could fall on floor. Not stored properly
•Chemicals next to sink may be improperly stored
Health hazards:
•Ergonomic: prolonged/repeated bending over to put prices on cans
•Ergonomic: carrying heavy sack on shoulder
•Ergonomic: repeated crouching down to open cartons of goods
•Chemical: bottles next to sink not labeled
7-10
Copyright UIUC Labor Education Program, 2015
Unit 7 – Worker Health and Safety
Handout 7-2. (page 2)
LIST OF HAZARDS IN WORKPLACE ILLUSTRATIONS
OFFICE
Safety hazards:
•Falls: file cabinet drawers open. The cabinet can tip over and fall
on someone
•Trips: electrical cord lying in the middle of the room
•Slips: Paper clutter on the floor by copy machine
•Sharp objects: paper cutter blade is up; scissors are open
•Crowded work area: narrow space between worker’s desk and
table
•Emergency exit/fire: cubicle exit partially blocked by items
leaning against cubicle wall
Health hazards:
•Ergonomic: Awkward posture because computer is too high.
Worker can get neck, shoulders, and hand strain with long-term
damage to muscles
•Psychological: Possible stress if there is too much work, not
enough breaks
Copyright UIUC Labor Education Program, 2015
7-11
Workers’ Rights for Workforce Development
Handout 7-2. (page 3)
LIST OF HAZARDS IN WORKPLACE ILLUSTRATIONS
GAS STATION
Safety Hazards:
•Slip: Hose on ground near icy puddles and near oily areas in
front of car.
•Worker could slip in oily areas or on the icy puddles, and/or trip
on hose and stumble.
•Fire Hazard: Worker pumping gas near person who is smoking.
If customer throws lighted cigarette near oily area, could cause
fire.
•Fall: Gas can and washer fluid at the pump island make the
work area cluttered.
•Improper Storage: Fire extinguisher should be mounted on wall,
not propped up by tire
Health Hazards:
•Disease: Worker exposed to secondhand smoke from smoker.
•Sickness: Cold outside. Worker doesn’t have coat.
•Worker should have work gloves to protect hands from
gasoline, motor oil, and windshield fluid and from cold
•Violence: Customers sometimes try to rob gas stations,
especially at night. (Safety for injury, Health for psychological
trauma)
7-12
Copyright UIUC Labor Education Program, 2015
Unit 7 – Worker Health and Safety
Handout 7-2. (page 4)
LIST OF HAZARDS IN WORKPLACE ILLUSTRATIONS
FAST FOOD
Safety Hazards:
•Falls: Wet floor by oven & oven door open: someone could slip
& fall and also get hit by the oven door
•Electrical cord should not be near a faucet
•Chemical products may be improperly stored (too close to heat
of oven)
•Greasy floor at the frying area & stove burners are turned up
high.
•Worker could slip and also burn himself on the stove.
•Having to reach up high for the box; worker could get back
strain if box is heavy. Box could slip out of hands and hit the fry
cook.
•Extra knife on counter; if worker slips while cutting, she could
get hurt by the extra knife.
Health Hazards:
•Psychological: If there are a lot of customers and there is
pressure to produce the orders quickly, or if customers are angry
or harass workers, the work atmosphere can become stressful
•Unlabeled chemical products
Copyright UIUC Labor Education Program, 2015
7-13
Workers’ Rights for Workforce Development
Handout 7-2. (page 1)
TYPES OF HAZARDS
SAFETY HAZARDS
are those which cause injury to the worker.
Falls:
in general industry, fall protection must be provided to
protect from falls from 48”; while in construction, protection
must be provided at the 6’ mark.
Falls to same level:
conditions that cause a person to slip, trip, fall, or hurt
themselves
Ladders, scaffolds,
stairways
Cluttered
workspaces, slippery
surfaces, wet or
greasy floors
Working underneath
workers are at risk of falling objects when work is being done cranes or scaffolds,
objects placed on
above them or when materials are not stacked properly.
shelves too high
Falling objects:
Electricity:
electrocution can occur when a person comes into contact
with an electric current
Sharp objects:
Electric equipment,
electrical wires,
lightning, batteries
can cause cuts and even amputations.
Knife, saw, meat
cutter, box cutter
Machines:
Motor part, drills
machine parts, both fast moving and slow parts, can cause
accidents as crushing or amputating parts of the body.
Moving objects:
a person can be struck, run over or crushed by heavy
machinery.
7-14
Tractors, trucks,
forklifts
Copyright UIUC Labor Education Program, 2015
Unit 7 – Worker Health and Safety
Handout 7-2. (page 2)
TYPES OF HAZARDS
Confined spaces:
Manholes, tanks, vats,
is difficult to enter/exit; is not designed for people to work in; grain elevators
has limited supply of fresh air
Fire:
conditions that increase the risk of a fire occurring in the
workplace.
Repetitive motions:
Bad wiring, improper
use of stoves, failure
to have fire safety
equipment
work that requires the same motion over and over can
cause pain or injuries over time, even if the motions are not
difficult.
Assembly line work such
as poultry and meat
cutting; working at
computer keyboard
Heavy lifting:
Boxes, people
Pushing/pulling objects that are too heavy or carried
incorrectly can cause back problems or problems in other
parts of the body
PHYSICAL HAZARDS
can cause illnesses when they transfer energy form the object to the person.
Noise: can cause hearing damage, either immediately
or gradually over time; noise exposure is calculated for 8
hours.
Heat: a hot surface or overexposure to the sun or heat
can cause burning or dehydration.
Copyright UIUC Labor Education Program, 2015
Machinery, motors,
explosions, loud music
Working outside during the
summertime, ovens, fryers,
grills
7-15
Workers’ Rights for Workforce Development
Handout 7-2. (page 3)
TYPES OF HAZARDS
Cold:
exposure to cold or being trapped in a cold place can
cause frostbite, hypothermia, and even death.
Miscellaneous:
any other physical object that can cause injury or illness.
Working outside during the
wintertime, refrigerators,
freezers
Radiation, ill-fitting
protective equipment
CHEMICAL HAZARDS
can enter the body in the following ways:
Inhalation (breathing)
Ingestion (swallowing)
Absorption (through the skin)
Through openings in the skin (cuts)
Solids:
Dry paint (can contain lead)
chemicals in solid form.
Dust:
dust contains small particles of solids.
Liquids:
chemicals in liquid form at room temperature.
Vapor:
vapor is a gas that has evaporated; can cause eye and
skin irritations or even cause brain damage over time.
7-16
Cement bags, fiberglass,
asbestos
Pesticides, paints, cleaning
products
Pesticides, paints, cleaning
products
Copyright UIUC Labor Education Program, 2015
Unit 7 – Worker Health and Safety
Handout 7-2. (page 4)
TYPES OF HAZARDS
Gas:
some chemicals exist as gases at room temperature;
some solid and liquid chemicals convert into gas when
heated.
Vapors (gases), dusts and/or smoke as a result of a
chemical reaction, heating, explosion or detonation.
Aerosols, carbon
monoxide, vehicle fumes,
hydrogen sulfide
Fumes:
Welding, asphalt
BIOLOGICAL HAZARDS
are living things that can cause injury or illness to human beings.
Animals/Rodents:
Allergies, manure
many injuries and illnesses can be caused by contact
with animals or animal waste.
Insects:
Roaches
certain insects may appear in filthy workplaces; they
can bite and spread disease
Sick people:
illnesses can be transmitted from one person to
another, through contact with a sick person or that
person’s fluids.
Needles & Syringes:
Examples of illness: cold
and flu; Examples of bodily
fluids: saliva, blood, waste
Aids, hepatitis
a variety of illnesses can be transmitted through
shared or contaminated needles.
Plants:
many illnesses can be caused by contact with plants.
Copyright UIUC Labor Education Program, 2015
Pollen, mold, poison ivy
7-17
Workers’ Rights for Workforce Development
HANDOUT 7-2.
Types of Hazards Fact Sheet
ADDITIONAL HAZARDS
are those which cannot be classified into the other categories
but can cause health or safety problems for workers.
Violence:
violence in the workplace is violence which is
directed to employees or employers; recall that
homicides are one of the leading causes of
workplace deaths.
Stress:
this occurs when the demands of the job are greater
than the capacity or resources of the worker.
7-18
Using weapons against
coworkers, fights at work,
employee abuse, robbery
at work
Angry clients, not enough
time to complete a task
Copyright UIUC Labor Education Program, 2015
Unit 7 – Worker Health and Safety
Handout 7-3 (Spanish). (página 1)
HOJA DE DATOS SOBRE TIPOS DE PELIGROS
PELIGROS DE SEGURIDAD
son aquellos cuales causan lesión al trabajador.
Caídas:
en la industria común, protección debe ser proporcionada
contra caídas desde 48 pulgadas de altura; mientras que en la
construcción la protección debe ser proporcionada desde 6 pies.
Caídas al mismo nivel:
condiciones que causan que el trabajador se resbale,
tropiece, caiga, o se lesione.
Objetos que caen:
los trabajadores corren riesgo de objetos que caen cuando el
trabajo es hecho arriba de ellos o cuando los materiales no
está apropiadamente apilados.
Electricidad:
electrocución puede ocurrir cuando una persona entra en
contacto con una corriente eléctrica.
Objetos puntiagudos:
pueden causar cortadas y amputaciones.
Máquinas:
partes de máquina ambas veloces y lentas, pueden causar
accidentes tales como aplastar o amputar partes corporales.
Objetos móviles:
la persona puede ser golpeada, atropellada o aplastada
por maquinaria pesada.
Copyright UIUC Labor Education Program, 2015
escaleras, andamios,
escalones
lugares de trabajo
desordenados,
superficies
resbaladizas, piso
mojado o grasoso
trabajando debajo
grúas o andamios,
objetos colocados
demasiado altos
equipo eléctrico,
generadores portátiles,
cables eléctricos, luces,
aparatos de iluminación,
baterías
cuchillo, sierra, cortadora
de carne, cuchillo
retractable de utilidad
partes de motor,
taladro
tractores, trocas,
montacargas
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Workers’ Rights for Workforce Development
Handout 7-2. (page 2)
TYPES OF HAZARDS
Espacios reducidos:
es dificil entrar/salir; no está diseñado para personas
trabajando; tiene una oferta limitada de aire fresco
Incendio:
condiciones que aumentan el riesgo de que un incendio
ocurra en el lugar de trabajo. La mejor defensa contra
incendios es prevenir que comience en el primer lugar.
pozos de registro,
tanques, cubas,
elevadores de granos
Bmal maniobra de cables
eléctricos, uso inapropiado
de estufas, peligros
químicos, no tener equipo
contra incendios,
Movimiento repetitivo:
línea de montaje, cortar
trabajo que requiere el mismo movimiento una y otra vez y carne, uso del teclado de
puede causar dolor o una lesión con el tiempo, aun cuando computadora
el movimiento no sea difícil.
Levantamiento de Objetos Pesados:
Empujar / tirar de objetos que son demasiado pesados
o realizado incorrectamente puede causar problemas de
espalda o problemas en otras partes del cuerpo
cajas, personas
PELIGROS FÍSICOS
pueden causar enfermedades cuando trasladan energía
del objeto hacia la persona..
Ruidos: pueden causar daño al oído, de manera
inmediata o gradualmente a largo plazo; la exposición al
ruido es calculada a lo largo de 8 horas
Calor: una superficie ardiente o sobrexposición al sol o
calor puede causar quemaduras o deshidratación.
7-20
maquinaria, motores,
explosiones, música fuerte
rabajando afuera durante el
verano, hornos, freidoras,
parillas
Copyright UIUC Labor Education Program, 2015
Unit 7 – Worker Health and Safety
Handout 7-2. (page 3)
TYPES OF HAZARDS
Frío:
xposición al frio o estar atrapado en un lugar frio puede
causar congelación corporal, hipotermia, y hasta la muerte.
Miscellaneous:
any other physical object that can cause injury or illness.
trabajando afuera durante
el invierno, refrigeradores,
congeladores
Radiation, ill-fitting
protective equipment
PELIGROS QUÍMICOS
pueden ingresar el cuerpo de las siguientes maneras:
Inhalación (al respirar)
Ingestión (al tragar)
Absorción (por la piel)
A través de aberturas en la piel (cortadas)
Sólidos:
químicos en la forma sólida
Polvo
dust contains small particles of solids.
Liquids:
químicos en forma líquida a temperatura ambiente.
Vapor:
el vapor es un gas que se ha evaporado; puede causar
irritaciones en los ojos o la piel o incluso daño cerebral a
largo plazo.
Copyright UIUC Labor Education Program, 2015
pintura seca (puede
contener plomo)
bolsas de cemento, fibra de
vidrio, asbestos
pesticidas, pinturas,
productos de limpieza
pesticidas, pinturas,
productos de limpieza
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Workers’ Rights for Workforce Development
Handout 7-2. (page 4)
TYPES OF HAZARDS
Gas:
algunos químicos existen como gases a temperatura
ambiente; algunos químicos sólidos o líquidos de
convierten a gas cuando son calentados.
aerosoles, monóxido de
carbono,
soldadura, asfalto
Humos:
vapores (gases), polvos, o/y humo emitido por una
substancia como resultado de una transformación
química tal como una reacción, calentamiento,
explosión o detonación.
PELIGROS BIOLÓGICOS
on seres vivos que pueden causar daño o enfermedad en seres humanos.
Animales/Roedores:
alergias, estiércol
enfermedades y daños pueden ser causados a través
de contacto con animales o desecho animal.
Insectos:
Cucarachas
ciertos insectos pueden aparecer en lugares de trabajo
sucios; pueden morder y propagar enfermedades.
Personas enfermas:
enfermedades pueden ser transmitidas de una
persona a otra, a través de contacto con una persona
enferma o su fluidos.
ejemplos de enfermedades:
resfriado y gripa ejemplos
de líquido biológico: saliva,
sangre, deshecho
Agujas y Jeringas:
SIDA, hepatitis
una variedad de enfermedades pueden ser
transmitidas a través de agujas compartidas o
contaminadas.
Plantas:
muchas enfermedades pueden ser causadas a través
de contacto con plantas.
7-22
polen, moho, hiedra
venenosa
Copyright UIUC Labor Education Program, 2015
Unit 7 – Worker Health and Safety
HANDOUT 7-2.
Types of Hazards Fact Sheet
PELIGROS ADICIONALES
son los que no pueden clasificados dentro las otras categorías, pero que
aún pueden causar problemas de salud o seguridad al trabajador.
Violencia:
Violencia en el lugar de trabajo es la que está
dirigida hacia empleados o empleadores; recuerde
que el homicidio es una de las causas principales
de muerte en el lugar de trabajo.
Estrés:
esto ocurre cuando la exigencia del trabajo es
demasiada para la capacidad o los recursos del
trabajador.
Copyright UIUC Labor Education Program, 2015
usando armas contra
compañeros de trabajo,
peleas en el trabajo, abuso
al empleado, robo en el
trabajo
clientes furiosos, escaso
tiempo para completar
una obra
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Workers’ Rights for Workforce Development
Activity
7-2
What are your legal rights
to work in a safe workplace?
(25 min) Quiz and whole group discussion
Instructor passes out Handout 7-4a. OSHA quiz.
Ask people to fill out individually or in pairs. Explain that this is not a test; it’s
just a way to see what you already know about your rights to a healthy and
safe workplace. Lead a whole group discussion of answers.
Use Handout 7-4b. Answers to OSHA Quiz as your guide to the answers.
Instructor passes it out to participants after the discussion.
Photo by Ingrid Taylor
Refer participants to additional info in handouts on OSHA rights from
OSHA’s website, Handout 7-5. OSHA Rights and Handout 7-6. OSHA
Contact Info & Complaint Form. Also steer students to the booklet called
“Your Right to a Safe Workplace” in the Resource Section at the beginning
of this unit. It’s a user-friendly, readable summary of rights in English and
Spanish. Encourage students to review all of these documents at home.
http://safetyandhealth.ufcw.org/files/2015/02/OSHA-Rights-Spanish9Feb2015.pdf
7-24
Copyright UIUC Labor Education Program, 2015
Unit 7 – Worker Health and Safety
Handout 7-4a.
OSHA QUIZ (IN ENGLISH)
What legal rights do workers have to a safe job?
1. Workers in the U.S. have a legal right to a safe and healthy job.
 True 
False
2. If you are an immigrant, you are not protected by any workplace safety laws.
 True 
False
3. Legally, who is responsible for providing a safe and healthy workplace?



The Employer
The Union
 The Workers
 OSHA
All of The Above
4. If you are a temp worker, the temp agency and the client company are both responsible to protect
you from workplace dangers.
 True  False
5. If you are younger than 16 you are not allowed to work in hazardous jobs
True 
False
6. Workers can call the government to inspect a workplace for hazards.
 True
 False
7. When workers call OSHA to request an inspection of the workplace, they don’t have to tell their name.
True  False
8. Workers have the legal right to refuse to do unsafe or unhealthy job tasks.
 True 
False
9. Workers have the right to know about the chemicals they work with, and employers must train
employees how to work safely with chemicals.
 True  False
10. If the employer requires workers to wear personal safety equipment, the workers have to pay for it.
 True 
False
11. Workers can be fired if they request a safety inspection from the government, and there’s nothing
that can be done about it.
 True 
False
Copyright UIUC Labor Education Program, 2015
7-25
Workers’ Rights for Workforce Development
Handout 7-4a.
OSHA QUIZ (EN ESPAÑOL)
¿Cuáles derechos legales de seguridad tienen los trabajadores en el trabajo?
1. Los trabajadores en los E.E.U.U. tienen un derecho legal a un trabajo seguro e higiénico.
 Verdadero  Falso
2. Si usted es un inmigrante, no tiene la protección de las leyes de seguridad en el trabajo.
 Verdadero  Falso
3. ¿ Legalmente, quién tiene la responsabilidad para proporciona un lugar de trabajo que sea seguro e
higiénico?
 El Patrón
 Los Trabajadores
 El Sindicato
 OSHA
 Todas las respuestas de arriba
4. Si usted es un trabajador temporal, la empresa de trabajo temporal y la empresa cliente son ambos
responsable para protegerte de los peligros del lugar de trabajo.
 Verdadero  Falso
5. Si usted es menor de 16 años, no se le permite trabajar en trabajos peligrosos.
 Verdadero  Falso
6. Los trabajadores pueden llamar al gobierno para inspeccionar peligros en un lugar de trabajo.
 Verdadero  Falso
7. C
uando los trabajadores llamen a OSHA para pedir una inspección del lugar de trabajo, no necesitan
decir su nombre.
 Verdadero  Falso
8. Los trabajadores tienen el derecho de rechazar hacer deberes inseguros o insalubres en el trabajo.
 Verdadero  Falso
9. Los trabajadores tienen el derecho de saber algo sobre las sustancias químicas que usan en el trabajo, y
los patrones necesitan entrenar sus empleados en cómo trabajar seguramente con sustancias químicas.
 Verdadero  Falso
10. Si el empleador requiere que los trabajadores usen el equipo de seguridad personal, los trabajadores
tienen que pagar por ello.
 Verdadero  Falso
11. Los trabajadores pueden ser despedidos si piden del gobierno una inspección, y no hay nada que se
pueda hacer para cambiar eso.
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 Verdadero  Falso
Copyright UIUC Labor Education Program, 2015
Unit 7 – Worker Health and Safety
Handout 7-4b. (page 1)
OSHA QUIZ ANSWERS (ENGLISH)
What legal rights do workers have to a safe job?
ANSWERS
1. True & False. There is a federal (national)
law called OSHA. It protects millions of workers
from hazards/dangers on the job. If you work for
a company or a business, you are covered by this
law. But, the federal OSHA law does not apply to
all workers. If you work for yourself, you are not
covered by this law. For example, domestic workers
are not covered by OSHA.
2. False. OSHA covers immigrant workers,
whether they have papers or not.
7. True. OSHA will not tell the employer who asked
for an inspection. However, it is a good idea to have
a contact person representing the workers who can
walk around with the inspector on the inspection.
The person should be someone who knows the
hazards at the workplace and is not afraid to speak
out. If the workers are represented by a union at
the workplace, the contact person would be a union
representative, such as a shop steward.
8. True. But there are some rules you have to follow:
•You must believe that there is an imminent danger
(a worker could die or have a very bad injury).
•You must first ask the employer to fix the problem.
•It’s not possible to do the task another way.
•There is not enough time for OSHA to get there
•You offered to do another task, and you did not
leave your workplace.
3. The Employer: The OSHA law says that
employers are responsible; it is their legal duty to
provide a workplace free of hazards. If employers
don’t protect workers from workplace dangers,
they are breaking the law. They have to fix the
hazards and pay fines. Employees can do their part
to help make the workplace safe by following work 9. True. OSHA has created rules (called standards)
for employers. These standards explain what
rules of their employer and OSHA standards.
the employer must do to fix hazards. One of the
4. True. The temp agency must warn temp workers standards says that employees have the right to
about possible dangers in the job where they will
information about the chemicals they work with
be working. The client company is responsible for
and how to work safely with chemicals.
all workers’ safety at the worksite, including temp
workers. The client company must train all workers 10. False. If personal safety equipment is required
for the job, it is free. Employers are not allowed
about how to do their jobs safely, including temp
to charge workers for equipment. Examples are
workers. All workers, including temp workers,
gloves, goggles, masks, respirators, earmuffs or
have the right to report safety problems to their
earplugs, kneepads, safety vests. Personal safety
supervisor, and the company must respond to
equipment must be appropriate for the job, and it
problems that workers report.
must fit the person who is wearing it.
5. True. Workers under age 16 are not allowed
11. False. It is illegal to fire an employee or treat
to operate machines, work in factories, or do
them unfairly for using their rights under the
construction work.
OSHA law. There is a section of the OSHA law
6. True. Anyone who works in a workplace
that applies to this situation. (It’s called Section
covered by the OSHA law has the right to call OSHA 11 [c].) Workers have 30 days to file a complaint
and ask for an inspection. Some organizations such with OSHA about discrimination.
as unions and worker centers can also call OSHA for
the workers they represent. Family members can
also call OSHA.
Copyright UIUC Labor Education Program, 2015
7-27
Workers’ Rights for Workforce Development
Handout 7-4b. (page 2)
OSHA QUIZ ANSWERS (SPANISH)
¿Cuáles derechos legales de seguridad tienen los trabajadores en el trabajo?
RESPUESTAS
1. Verdadero y Falso. Hay una ley federal (nacional)
que se llama OSHA. Protege a millones de trabajadores
contra peligros en el trabajo. Si trabaja para una compañía
o negocio, está bajo la protección de ésta ley. Pero, la ley
federal de OSHA no se aplica a todos los trabajadores.
Si trabaja para sí mismo, no está protegido por ésta ley.
Por ejemplo, la ley de OSHA no se aplica a trabajadores
domésticos.
2. Falso. La ley de OSHA protege a los trabajadores
inmigrantes, si tienen papeles o no tienen papeles.
3. El empleador. La ley de OSHA dice que los
empleadores tienen la responsabilidad; tiene una obligación
legal de proveer un lugar de trabajo que no tenga peligros.
Si los empleadores no protegen a sus empleados de los
peligros en su lugar de trabajo, están violando la ley. Ellos
tienen que arreglar los peligros y pagar una multa. Los
empleados pueden hacer su parte para hacer su lugar
de trabajo más seguro—pueden seguir las reglas de su
empleador y las de OSHA.
4. Verdadero. La empresa de trabajo temporal debe
advertir a los trabajadores temporales sobre los posibles
peligros en el trabajo en el que se va a trabajar. La empresa
cliente es responsable de la seguridad de todos los
trabajadores en el lugar de trabajo, incluidos los trabajadores
temporales. La empresa cliente debe capacitar a todos los
trabajadores acerca de cómo hacer su trabajo con seguridad,
incluidos los trabajadores temporales. Todos los trabajadores,
incluidos los trabajadores temporales, tienen el derecho
de reportar problemas de seguridad a su supervisor, y la
empresa ha de responder a los problemas que denuncian los
trabajadores.
la inspección. Sin embargo, es una buena idea tener una
persona para representar los trabajadores quien puede
caminar con el inspector durante la inspección. Esta
persona debe saber los peligros en el lugar de trabajo y
no debe tener miedo de decirlos. Si los trabajadores son
representados por un sindicato en el lugar de trabajo, este
contacto sería un representativo del sindicato, por ejemplo
el representante sindical.
8. Verdadero. Pero hay algunas reglas que necesita usted
seguir.
•Usted necesita creer que hay un peligro inminente (un
trabajador podría morir o dañarse)
•Primero, usted necesita pedir al empleador que arregle el
problema.
•No se es posible hacer la tarea de otra manera.
•No hay bastante tiempo para que llegue OSHA al lugar de
trabajo.
•Usted ofreció hacer otro deber, y no salió del lugar de
trabajo.
9. Verdadero. OSHA ha creado reglas (se llaman
estándares) para empleadores. Estos estándares explican
lo que necesita hacer para arreglar peligros. Uno de los
estándares dice que los empleados tienen el derecho de
tener la información sobre las sustancias químicas con que
tienen contacto en el lugar de trabajo, y como trabajar
seguramente con sustancias químicas.
10. Falso. Si se requiere equipo de protección
personal para el trabajo, es gratis. Los empleadores no
están autorizados a cobrar a los trabajadores de los
equipos. Ejemplos de ello son guantes, gafas, máscaras,
(respiradores), orejeras o tapones para los oídos, rodilleras,
5. Verdadero. Los trabajadores menores de 16 años no se chalecos de seguridad, zapatos con punta de acero. Equipo
les permite operar máquinas, trabajar en las fábricas, o hacer de seguridad personal debe ser adecuada para el trabajo,
trabajos de construcción.
y tiene que adaptarse a la persona que está usando. Si se
rompe el equipo, el empleador debe reemplazarlo.
6. Verdadero. Cualquiera persona que trabaja en un lugar
de trabajo cubierta por la ley de OSHA tiene el derecho de
11. Falso. Es ilegal despedir a un empleado o tratarle
llamar e invitar a OSHA. Algunas organizaciones, como los
injustamente por haber ejercido cualquier derecho bajo
sindicatos y centros de trabajadores también pueden llamar
la ley de OSHA. Hay una sección de la ley de OSHA que
a OSHA por los trabajadores que representan. Miembros de se aplica a esta situación (Sección 11[c]). Los trabajadores
la familia del trabajador también pueden llamar a OSHA.
tienen 30 días para presentar una demanda con la OSHA
sobre discriminación.
7. Verdadero. OSHA no dirá al empleador quien pidió
7-28
Copyright UIUC Labor Education Program, 2015
Unit 7 – Worker Health and Safety
Handout 7-5.
OSHA RIGHTS
YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO A SAFE WORKPLACE En Español
Tieng Viet Nam
You have the right to a safe workplace. The Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970
(OSH Act) was passed to prevent workers from being killed or seriously harmed at work.
The law requires employers to provide their employees with working conditions that are
free of known dangers.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets and enforces protective
workplace safety and health standards.
OSHA also provides information, training and assistance to workers and employers.
Workers may file a complaint to have OSHA inspect their workplace if they believe that
their employer is not following OSHA standards or that there are serious hazards.
WORKER RIGHTS
Workers are entitled to working conditions that do not pose a risk of serious harm. To help
assure a safe and healthful workplace, OSHA also provides workers with the right to:
•Ask OSHA to inspect their workplace;
•Use their rights under the law without retaliation and discrimination;
•Receive information and training about hazards, ways to protect you, and the OSHA
standards that apply to their workplace. The training must be in a language you can
understand;
•Get copies of test results done to find hazards in the workplace;
•Review employer’s records of work-related injuries and illnesses
•Get copies of your medical records for any tests that the employer may require (such as
hearing test, blood test, breathing test, urine test)
For more information, visit the Workers’ page https://www.osha.gov/workers.html
Copyright UIUC Labor Education Program, 2015
7-29
Workers’ Rights for Workforce Development
Handout 7-6. (page 1)
OSHA CONTACT INFO AND COMPLAINT FORM
How to contact OSHA
OSHA has 5 offices in Illinois.
To find out which one is closest to you, call the number below.
230 South Dearborn Street, Room 3244
Chicago, Illinois 60604
(312) 353-2220
(312) 353-7774 FAX
Or call our toll-free number:
1-800-321-OSHA (6742)
TTY 1-877-889-5627
En Español
OSHA will keep your information confidential. We are here to help.
The Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 gives employees and their representatives
the right to file a complaint and request an OSHA inspection of their workplace if they
believe there is a serious hazard or their employer is not following OSHA standards. Further,
the Act gives complainants the right to request that their names not be revealed to their
employers.
Complaints from employees and their representatives are taken seriously by OSHA. It is
against the law for an employer to fire, demote, transfer, or discriminate in any way against a
worker for filing a complaint or using other OSHA rights.
OSHA will keep your information confidential. We can help.
If you think your job is unsafe and you want to ask for an inspection, contact us.
It is confidential. If you have been fired, demoted, transferred or discriminated
against in any way for using your rights under the law, you must file a complaint
with OSHA within 30 days of the alleged discrimination.
7-30
Copyright UIUC Labor Education Program, 2015
Unit 7 – Worker Health and Safety
Handout 7-6. (page 2)
OSHA CONTACT INFO AND COMPLAINT FORM
Complaint Filing Options
You have these options to file your safety and health complaint:
Online
Go to the Online Complaint Form Written complaints that are signed by workers
or their representative and submitted to an OSHA Area or Regional office are
more likely to result in onsite OSHA inspections. Complaints received on line from
workers in OSHA-approved state plan states will be forwarded to the appropriate
state plan for response.
Download and Fax/Mail
Download the OSHA complaint form* [En Espanol*] (or request a copy from your
local OSHA Regional or Area Office), complete it and then fax or mail it back to
your local OSHA Regional or Area Office. Written complaints that are signed by
a worker or representative and submitted to the closest OSHA Area Office are
more likely to result in onsite OSHA inspections. Please include your name, address
and telephone number so we can contact you to follow up. This information is
confidential.
Telephone
your local OSHA Regional or Area Office. OSHA staff can discuss your complaint
and respond to any questions you have. If there is an emergency or the
hazard is immediately life-threatening, call your local OSHA Regional or
Area Office
or 1-800-321-OSHA.
https://www.osha.gov/as/opa/worker/complain.html
Copyright UIUC Labor Education Program, 2015
7-31
Workers’ Rights for Workforce Development
Activity
7-3
Your job or your health?
What do you choose?
(15 Minutes) Whole group, tip sheet and role-play
Speaking up for your rights (5 min)
Instructor explains that the group will review tips for talking to the boss about
unsafe situations. Pass out Handout 7-7. Tip Sheet on Talking with Your Boss.
Ask volunteers to read it aloud and see if there are any questions.
Role-plays on rights (10 min)
Ask pairs of volunteers to role-play scenarios between a worker and boss
(on refusing hazardous work and offering to do alternative work, asking for
training in work procedures, asking for protective equipment such as gloves or
goggles).
Photograph by Seattle Municipal Archives
Discuss each role-play afterwards. Do as many as time allows.
7-32
Copyright UIUC Labor Education Program, 2015
Unit 7 – Worker Health and Safety
Handout 7-7.
TIPS FOR TALKING TO THE BOSS
Do you have a problem you want to talk with your boss about? Not feeling sure
how to do it? Nervous? Here are some tips for handling the situation.
Before
1. Review the facts and think about solutions for the problem. You might find it
helpful to make a list of the facts and your solutions.
2. T alk to a friend about the situation. Be sure it is someone you trust to keep
this conversation private. Tell them what you think you could say. Ask them
for suggestions.
3. P ractice what you are going to say with your friend. If possible, make a
recording and listen to how it sounds. Or, you might ask your friend to
pretend to be you and say the words you would say. You can also practice by
yourself at home in front of a mirror.
While talking to your boss
4. B
e calm and low key. If something happened that you had a strong
emotional reaction to, wait until you are no longer upset.
5. Look at your boss when you talk to her/him. Speak clearly and in a voice
that’s not too loud or too soft.
6. Ask if this is a good time to talk with you. If not now, when? Agree on a time
and place.
7. Your boss may ask questions, so know your facts.
8. Listen carefully. Hear him out before responding or asking questions
9. Thank your boss for his/her help in solving the problem.
If you think you have a legal right in the
situation, find out what your rights are. Check
your employee handbook or union contract. Talk
to a workers’ center or your union for advice.
Copyright UIUC Labor Education Program, 2015
7-33
Workers’ Rights for Workforce Development
Activity
7-4
Who can help you if you work
in a dangerous place?
(5-10 min) Short talk, Q&A and discussion
Reporting problems to your employer
Instructor discusses procedures for reporting hazards to the boss and
emphasizes the importance of participants writing their own records.
Pass out Handout 7-8a. Keeping records. Ask participants to read on their
own.
What do you do when your employer doesn’t help you?
Photograph by Seattle Municipal Archives
Ask if anyone is in a union and if the union has helped workers with health
and safety problems. If so, ask someone to share their experience. Provide a
brief explanation of the purpose of worker centers.
7-34
Copyright UIUC Labor Education Program, 2015
Unit 7 – Worker Health and Safety
Handout 7-8a.
KEEPING RECORDS
WHY KEEP HEALTH AND SAFETY RECORDS?
Your rights to a safe workplace are guaranteed. But, you may have to take action if
your employer does not protect you from workplace dangers. You have the right to
report problems to your employer, and your employer must fix these problems. Make
sure to keep notes of any problems that you notice. Documenting problems is a way
to create evidence. Keep the notes in a safe place at home. If the employer gives you
any information about safety (such as a handbook or work rules), keep it with your
notes. All of this paperwork—your notes and documents from your employer-- will
be helpful if you need to file an OSHA complaint or take other action to get safer
working conditions. Here are some situations where it’s good to make notes:
Hazardous Conditions
You see a dangerous situation where someone could get hurt. You report it. The
situation is not corrected.
Your supervisor asks you to do something unsafe. You ask the supervisor to correct
the problem and you offer to do another task in the meantime. The supervisor still
wants you to do the unsafe work.
Training & Information
You need to be trained on how to do a task safely, and you haven’t received the
training.
You ask for information about the chemicals you work with, and you don’t get it.
Equipment to protect you
You ask for clothing and equipment such as gloves, goggles, mask, and you don’t get
them. Or, you get the equipment, but your employer deducts the cost from your pay.
Injury records/Medical records
You get injured on the job. When you return to work, you ask for a copy of the
employer’s record of the injury (called the OSHA 301 incident report), and you don’t
get it. Other workers are injured too. A group of workers decides to ask for the OSHA
300 Log to see if the employer has recorded everyone’s injury, and you don’t get it.
Your employer does a medical test (examples: hearing, blood, breathing, drug). You
ask to see the records. Keep a copy of the records from the employer. Make notes if
you ask for the records and you don’t get them.
Copyright UIUC Labor Education Program, 2015
7-35
Workers’ Rights for Workforce Development
Handout 7-8b.
HEALTH & SAFETY NOTES (BLANK)
Name____________________________________________
Company Name _________________________________________________
Company address _______________________________________________
Today’s date ______________________
What is the problem? Describe it.
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
When did the problem begin? (Date) _______________________________
Where is the problem? ______________________________________
Who did you report it to? _____________________________________
When did you report it to your employer? (Date) _______________________
What was the response from your employer?
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
7-36
Copyright UIUC Labor Education Program, 2015
Unit 7 – Worker Health and Safety
Handout 7-8c.
HEALTH AND SAFE NOTES (FILLED IN)
Copyright UIUC Labor Education Program, 2015
7-37
Workers’ Rights for Workforce Development
Activity
7-5
What should you do if you
get sick or injured at work?
(25 min) Whole group discussion, story,
fact sheets and quiz
Workers’ comp experience (5-10 min)
Instructor asks whole group if anyone has gotten sick or injured from work
and if they filed a workers’ compensation claim. One or two volunteers could
briefly tell their experience. Ideally, it would be helpful to have an example of a
bad experience and a good experience.
If no one has an example, pass out Handout 7-9. Carlos’ Story. Ask group to
read and then have discussion.
Workers’ comp basics (20 min)
Instructor passes out Handout 7-10. 5
Things You Need to Know about Workers’
Compensation. Go around the room and ask
volunteers to read each point. Stop after each
point and ask whether anyone has questions.
Refer participants to the Illinois Workers’
Compensation Commission website for more
information to read at home. Remind people
that they can get a referral to comp attorneys
from worker centers or their union.
Instructor passes out Handout 7-11a. Workers’
Compensation Quiz: Can These Workers File a
Workers’ Compensation Claim? Ask participants
to pair up, read the statements and decide the
answers together. Review the answers with
the group. Pass out Handout 7-11b. Workers’
Compensation Quiz Answers.
7-38
Copyright UIUC Labor Education Program, 2015
Unit 7 – Worker Health and Safety
Handout 7-9.
CARLOS’ STORY
MEET CARLOS
Carlos has been working in the restaurant industry
for ten years. He is a bartender assistant. One day
he was badly cut on the job...
“All of his happens because of how nervous you
are not to break anything. I was cleaning coffee
cups while one of the owners was at the bar. I
dropped one of the cups and I tried so hard to
catch it, but it broke as I tried to grab it. It cut me
really deep. The manager helped me clean it up
but then I found a piece of porcelain in it. When I
pulled it out, my wrist started to gush dark blood.
I got really lightheaded and scared. I was worried I
cut an artery.
They bandaged it up and gave me a latex glove
and told me to finish the last half of my shift until
4:00. I finished it, and when I left I told them that
my wrist really hurt and I didn’t feel good. They
told me to go home and take some Tylenol or
something for the pain and to come back at 7:00
and finish my double shift. And maybe he would
let me go home a little early, maybe at midnight…
At the emergency room they x-rayed my hand to
make sure there wasn’t more porcelain in there.
The doctor gave me a bill for my boss and a note
that said I wasn’t supposed to work for a few days.
When I brought the note to the owner he was so
mad he wouldn’t talk to me. I gave the paperwork
to the manager…The owner called me later to see
if I had any insurance. I told him that I didn’t have
insurance…He was angry.
Finally the manager called me back to tell me that
I could go back to the hospital when I needed to
get the stitches out and that I would get paid for
the time I spent at home getting better, but that if
I go work anywhere else during those days I could
get in trouble with the law. I told him I only have
one job and was I was going to use those days to
get better.
It’s good in a way what happened, because I
learned how to go about making sure my rights
are respected… If you don’t have documents, it
doesn’t matter, you have rights. This experience
also allowed me to serve as a sort of guide to
It hurt a lot so I called ROC (a worker center for
my co-workers in the future if anything like this
restaurant workers). Before that I didn’t even know
happens to them.”
what workers’ comp was. After I talked to ROC, I
called the restaurant and told them I wasn’t going Adapted from Serving While Sick, by Restaurant Opportunities
in and I was going to the hospital. The owner was Center United (2010), p.20.
mad, but when I mentioned workers’ comp he
said I could take the day off and to call tomorrow,
but don’t worry about workers’ comp.
Copyright UIUC Labor Education Program, 2015
7-39
Workers’ Rights for Workforce Development
Handout 7-10.
5 THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT
WORKERS’ COMPENSATION
1. If you get injured on the job, or if you get
sick because of your work, your employer must
have insurance to protect you. The insurance is
called “workers’ comp”, and it pays the costs of
your medical care and some of your wages due
to workplace injury and illness. Workers’ comp
insurance is required by state law; all employers,
including temp staffing agencies, must buy this
insurance.
2. You must report your injuries to your supervisor
within 45 days. The sooner, the better. If you
become sick from your work, you must report it
as soon as possible to your supervisor. Make notes
about the accident or illness and keep these notes
in a safe place.
3. Your employer may give you a hard time. If
your employer won’t pay wages and medical
expenses for your work injury or illness, file a
compensation claim with the Illinois Workers’
Compensation Commission. You generally have
three years to file a claim in Illinois. You can get a
lawyer who will do the paperwork and fight for
you. Workers’ comp lawyers are free of charge. If
you win your case, their fee is deducted from the
settlement.
4. You can file a workers’ comp insurance claim
even if the employer says the injury was your
fault. Workers’ comp is supposed to be no fault
insurance.
5. It’s illegal for your employer to harass you,
fire you, or discriminate against you if you file a
workers’ compensation claim. But it can happen.
In that case, you need a lawyer to help you.
NOTE: These statements may not be up-to-date,
because the workers’ comp law can change. Get
advice from a lawyer as soon as possible after an
injury or illness from work.
7-40
Illinois Workers’ Compensation
Commission
•More information is available from the Illinois
Workers’ Compensation Commission:
•Handbook in English, Spanish or Polish
http://www.iwcc.il.gov/handbook.htm
•Frequently asked questions:
http:/www.iwcc.il.gov/faq.htm
For more information
If you intend to visit our Peoria or Rockford office,
please call first to make sure the office is open.
Toll-free within Illinois only: 866/352-3033
TDD (Telecomm. Device for the Deaf): 312/814-2959
Chicago office:
100 W Randolph St Suite 8-200, Chicago, IL 60601
312/814-6611
[email protected]
Collinsville office:
The staff position is vacant. Please contact another office.
1014 Eastport Plaza Dr., Collinsville, IL 62234
618/346-3450
Peoria office: 401 Main St, Suite 640, Peoria, IL 61602
309/671-3019
Teena Pitman, [email protected]
Rockford office:
200 S Wyman, Rockford, IL 61101
815/987-7292
Kelley Griffin, [email protected]
Springfield office:
Click here for directions. The staff position is
vacant. Please contact another office.
4500 S Sixth St Frontage Road
Springfield, IL 62703-5118
217/785-7087
Copyright UIUC Labor Education Program, 2015
Unit 7 – Worker Health and Safety
Handout 7-11a.
WORKERS’ COMPENSATION QUIZ
Can these workers file a Workers’ Compensation Claim?
1. Joe lost a finger on the job.
2. Darryl was in a car accident on the way to work. The accident
was two miles from work.
3. A brick fell on Tamika in the parking lot as she was leaving work.
4. Mel worked with heavy dust for several years. Ten years after he
left the job, he got lung disease.
5. Claudia hurt her foot at work; her boss gave her a sitting job. She
didn’t miss any work.
Photograph by ATT Clemson
6. F elipe hurt his back at work. He didn’t report it. Six months later
an x-ray showed spine damage.
Copyright UIUC Labor Education Program, 2015
7-41
Workers’ Rights for Workforce Development
Handout 7-11b.
WORKERS’ COMPENSATION QUIZ ANSWERS
Can These Workers File a Workers’ Compensation Claim? (Answers)
1. Joe lost a finger on the job.
Yes. Joe can file a claim for an injury at work, even if the injury was his fault.
2. Darryl was in a car accident on the way to work. The accident was two miles from work.
o. The accident did not happen while Darryl was working. If workers have to travel as part of their
N
job, then they are eligible to file for workers’ compensation, but not on the way to or from work.
3. A brick fell on Tamika in the parking lot as she was leaving work.
es. A company parking lot is considered company property, so it’s a part of the workplace.
Y
Employers are required to keep the workplace free from hazards. If employees get injured on
company property, they can apply for workers’ compensation.
4. Mel worked with heavy dust for several years. Ten years after he left the job, he got
lung disease.
es. Some diseases take a very long time to appear. Workers can file a claim when they become
Y
aware of their health condition. Mel needs a workers’ comp lawyer to help him prove his case.
5. Claudia hurt her foot at work; her boss gave her a sitting job. She didn’t miss any work.
es. If someone gets injured at work, they are eligible for workers’ compensation. It doesn’t matter
Y
whether they lose time or not.
6. F
elipe hurt his back at work. He didn’t report it. Six months later an x-ray showed
spine damage.
o. He didn’t report the injury to his employer within 45 days, so he can’t file for workers’
N
compensation.
(Adapted from Problem Posing at Work: English for Action. 2nd edition, by Auerbach & Wallerstein (2004), p.190).
7-42
Copyright UIUC Labor Education Program, 2015
Unit 7 – Worker Health and Safety
Handout 7-12.
HOW MUCH IS A LIMB WORTH?
By Lena Groeger and Michael Gradell, ProPublica
and Cynthia Cotts, special to ProPublica, March 5, 2015
If you suffer a permanent injury on the job, you’re typically entitled to compensation for the damage to
your body and your future lost wages. But depending on the state, benefits for the same body part can
differ dramatically.
Go to the link below to locate the interactive diagrams to compare the amount of money a particular
state will award for a specific limb compared with with the national award average or to compare all 50
states’ values for each limb.
http://www.fastcodesign.com/3043318/infographic-of-the-day/how-much-money-your-limbs-are-worthstate-by-state#3
Link for the ProPublica article: https://www.propublica.org/article/how-much-is-your-arm-worth-depends-where-you-work
Nevada
$859,634
Federal
$588,647
District of Columbia Tennessee
$342,305
$309.096
Copyright UIUC Labor Education Program, 2015
Illinois
$479,858
Kentucky
$402,277
Pennsylvania
$389,910
Iowa
361,750
Maryland
$301,600
New Hampshire
$294,840
Vermont
$290,871
New Jersey
$268,983
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Workers’ Rights for Workforce Development
Activity
7-6
Conclusion
(5 min) Whole group storyboard review and Q&A
Photograph by DRP
Instructor passes out Handout 7-12 Worker Rights Storyboard “B” to the
whole group. Give everyone a couple of minutes to review it. Walk people
through the storyboard and have a Q&A to clarify any questions.
7-44
Copyright UIUC Labor Education Program, 2015
Unit 7 – Worker Health and Safety
Handout 7-13. (page 1)
WORKER RIGHTS STORYBOARD “B”
Copyright UIUC Labor Education Program, 2015
7-45
Workers’ Rights for Workforce Development
Handout 7-12. (page 2)
WORKER RIGHTS STORYBOARD “B”
Drawing by Alison Dickson
7-46
Copyright UIUC Labor Education Program, 2015

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