WASHINGTON -- Informing employees about the presence and effects of hazardous chemicals is one of the thrusts of "Introduction to OSHA," a new training component emphasizing workers' rights.

"Introduction to OSHA," which is delivered to hundreds of thousands of workers each year via OSHA's Outreach Training Program, focuses on the importance of workers' rights and advises them of their right to safe and healthful workplaces.
 
"For too long workers have avoided making claims of unsafe work conditions out of fear of losing their jobs," said Assistant Secretary of Labor for OSHA David Michaels. "We are confident that this new training will embolden workers to speak up when they find work practices that endanger their lives and the lives of their co-workers."

During the 10- and 30-hour outreach training program classes, OSHA trainers will cover topics on whistleblower rights and filing a complaint, and will provide samples of a weekly fatality and catastrophe report, material data safety sheet and the OSHA Log of Work-Related Injuries and Illnesses.

Read OSHA's press release.