IOSHA’s Whistleblower Protection Unit investigates complaints filed by Hoosier workers who allege that they were subjected to retaliation in violation of Section 11(c) of the Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Act.
Employees who believe that they have been discharged or retaliated against for engaging in a protected activity, may, within 30 calendar days after the alleged offense, file a complaint with the Indiana Department of Labor (IDOL). An individual filing a complaint of retaliation is required to show that he or she engaged in a protected activity, that the employer knew about the activity, that the employer subjected him/her to adverse employment action and the protected activity was the motivating factor in the adverse action.
“Protected” activities include the following:
- Reporting potential violations or hazards to management
- Reporting a work-related injury or illness
- Filing a complaint about workplace safety or health hazards
“Retaliation” can include the following:
- Firing or laying off,
- Demoting,
- Denying overtime or promotion,
- Disciplining,
- Denial of benefits,
- Intimidation/harassment,
- Reassignment affecting prospects of promotion, and/or
- Reducing pay or hours.
While the online complaint form is the preferred method of filing a whistleblower complaint, you can also file a whistleblower complaint by calling (317) 232-2655 or by emailing whistleblower@dol.in.gov.
