744 Working with OSHA

Filing Complaints with OSHA

Completing the Complaint Form

Be specific and include appropriate details: The information on the complaint form may be the only description of the hazard that the inspector will see before the inspection. The inspector will base his or her research and planning on this information.

• Establishment Name, Address, and Type of Business: Be thorough and specific. The inspector's research on the company and the industry's hazards will be based on this information.
Hazard Description/Location: The hazard description is the most important part of the form. Your answer should explain the hazards clearly. If your complaint is about chemicals, identify them whenever possible and attach copies of labels or SDSs if you can. Identify the location of the hazard so the inspector will know where to look.
• Communication with the employer: Has this condition been brought to the attention of the employer or another government agency? You should indicate on the form if you have tried to get the employer to fix the hazard before filing the complaint. Also, if another agency, such as a local fire or building department, has been notified of these hazards, OSHA may want to consult with them.
• Do NOT reveal my name: OSHA will keep your name off the complaint, if you wish. Remember that discrimination for health and safety activity is illegal. If you are a union representative, you may wish to have your name on the complaint.
• Signature and address: It is important to sign the complaint if you want OSHA to conduct an onsite inspection. Also, your address will allow OSHA to send copies of inspection related materials to you.

For more information on filing OSHA complaints, visit OSHA's Filing a Complaint webpage.

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