Whistleblower Protection in Workplace Safety and Human Resources

This comprehensive course delves into the intricate landscape of whistleblower protection claims, a critical legal area where safety/health and human resources professionals may find themselves navigating complex scenarios that demand coordinated efforts or independent actions. This course focuses on the legal implications and consequences associated with whistleblower claims arising under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 (OSH Act) and the Federal Mine Safety & Health Act of 1977 (Mine Act), exploring the involvement of regulatory bodies such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA).

Course Outline:

1. Introduction to Whistleblower Protection Laws

  - Overview of the OSH Act and Mine Act

  - Regulatory roles of OSHA and MSHA

2. Employee Rights Under Federal Laws

  - Exploration of whistleblower statutes related to environmental and DOT

  - Understanding causes of action investigated and prosecuted by OSHA or MSHA

3. Protected Activity and Adverse Action

  - Definition and identification of protected activity

  - Analysis of adverse actions and their implications

4. Legal Distinctions Among Federal Laws

  - Differentiating between the OSH Act, Mine Act, and other whistleblower statutes

  - Case studies illustrating legal nuances

5. OSHA’s Electronic Recordkeeping Act

  - Examination of provisions under 29 CFR Part 1904

  - Impact on areas such as drug testing and Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) incentive programs

6. Handling Whistleblower Complaints from an Employer's Perspective

  - Best practices for addressing and responding to complaints

  - Strategies to mitigate potential conflicts and consequences

Live Q&A session will be held after the event.

Course Objectives:

Upon completion of this course, participants will:

1. Understand the rights of employees under the OSH Act, Mine Act, and related federal whistleblower statutes.

2. Differentiate between protected activity and adverse action in the context of whistleblower claims.

3. Gain insights into the distinctions among various federal laws governing whistleblower protection.

4. Comprehend the implications of OSHA’s Electronic Recordkeeping Act on employer practices, including drug testing and OHS incentive programs.

5. Acquire practical recommendations for handling whistleblower complaints from an employer's perspective.

Who Should Attend:

This course is designed for safety/health professionals, human resources practitioners, legal professionals, and anyone involved in managing workplace compliance and employee relations. It is particularly beneficial for those seeking a comprehensive understanding of whistleblower protection laws and their implications for organizations.