Occupational
Health and Safety (OSHA)
Employees that are punished by their employers for
attempting to ensure safe and healthful working conditions may sue
for wrongful termination in violation of the public policies
advanced by the health and safety laws. The federal law that
requires health and safety in the workplace is the Occupational
Health and Safety Act of 1970 (“OSHA”), Title 29 U.S.C. Sections
651, et seq. In California, the Division of Occupational Safety and
Health protects workers and the public from safety hazards by
enforcing California's occupational and public safety laws and
provides information and consultative assistance to employers,
workers and the public about workplace and public safety matters.
Freedom of Speech and Association / Political
Activity / 1st Amendment Rights
Certain forms of workplace speech are protected by
the law, including opposition to discrimination, sexual harassment,
and violations of the wage and health and safety laws.