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Complaint process


Program Directive A-219 establishes policies and procedures for how Oregon OSHA handles complaints relating to workplace safety and health conditions.

Complaints are handled one of two ways:

  1. An inspection of the alleged hazards at the employer's worksite.
  2. An inquiry, which is handled by phone, letter, or email to the employer.

Oregon OSHA will choose whether to conduct an inquiry or inspection. This allows us to use resources where the most serious workplace hazards may exist. Employees can request an on-site inspection if they are not satisfied with the inquiry.

When we handle a complaint through an inquiry, we will contact the employer and describe the alleged hazards. The employer must respond in writing within five days for faxed letters and 10 days for mailed letters. The employer must respond to the reported problems and document the actions it has taken or plans to take to correct the hazards - if the hazards were indeed true. The employee who filed the original complaint will receive a copy of the employer's response.

Anyone who knows about a workplace safety or health hazard may contact us and the hazards will be evaluated. Employees or their representatives may request an inspection of a workplace if they believe there is a violation of a safety or health standard, if there is any danger that threatens physical well being, or if an "imminent danger" hazard exists.

Oregon OSHA will keep the employee's identity confidential at the employee's request. Confidentiality requires a signature according to ORS 654.062(4) of the Oregon Safe Employment Act.