For Workers

If you believe working conditions are unsafe or unhealthful, you may file a complaint with HIOSH concerning a hazardous working condition at any time. If possible, bring the conditions to your employer’s attention first.

Under §12-57-7(b), HAR, you can refuse to do a task at work if it is unsafe if you meet all of the following:

1. have a reasonable apprehension of death or serious injury, and
2. you refused in “good faith,” and
3. there is no reasonable alternative,
4. there is not sufficient time to eliminate the condition through regular statutory enforcement channels (e.g., HIOSH inspection, or other public agencies tasked with safety and health), and
5. where possible, you sought from the employer and had been unable to get a correction of the dangerous condition.

Warning: You cannot walk off the job for unsafe conditions. Usually employers would correct these issues when they are informed. If they don’t make the corrections, you can still request for an inspection (e.g., HIOSH or other public agencies responsible for safety and health). Walking off the job might lead to disciplinary action from your company.