January 31, 2024

Hi regulation rockstars! There have been some major new updates in OSHA fines. A Staten Island health center recently learned a $195,000 lesson on the importance of whistleblower protection during a global pandemic.

What Happened:

A Staten Island health center, Community Health Center of Richmond (CHCR), has been ordered to pay $195,000 to a former employee they illegally fired for raising concerns about an in-person staff meeting during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. Ouch.

The Whistleblower:

This brave employee, concerned about the health risks of an in-person meeting in March 2020, requested a teleconference instead. They even went ahead and changed the meeting format themselves. Talk about taking initiative!

Retaliation Bites Back:

Unfortunately, CHCR CEO Henry Thompson wasn’t having it. He insisted on the in-person meeting, putting the employee in a tough spot. Faced with the choice between their health and their job, the employee ultimately chose not to attend. But instead of understanding their concerns, CHCR suspended them for “insubordination” and then fired them shortly after. Yikes.

OSHA Steps In:

The employee, rightfully upset, filed a whistleblower complaint with OSHA. And guess what? OSHA investigated and found CHCR in violation of whistleblower protection laws. Big win for employee rights!

The Payout:

As part of a settlement, CHCR and Thompson are shelling out $195,000 to the employee, on top of other measures like:

• Expunging the employee’s termination and suspension records
• Providing a neutral job reference
• Conducting employee training on safety concerns and whistleblower rights
• Posting a notice promising not to retaliate against employees who raise safety concerns

The Takeaway:

This case sends a clear message: Employers can’t silence employees who raise safety concerns, especially during a pandemic.

Here’s what this means for you:

• If you see something, say something. You have the right to raise safety concerns without fear of retaliation.
• Know your rights. OSHA protects whistleblowers in various industries.
• Don’t be afraid to speak up. This case shows that standing up for your safety and the safety of others can make a difference.

Remember, your health and safety matter. Don’t let employers bully you into silence. If you have concerns, speak up and know that you have rights. To learn more about your rights in the workplace, email info@abyde.com and schedule an educational consultation here.