Can Employees Refuse to Work Under Certain Conditions?

While employers have the authority to set workplace policies, there are situations where employees can refuse to work under specific conditions without facing adverse consequences.

Right to Refuse Dangerous Work

When work conditions are life-threatening or present a risk of severe injury, you may have the right to refuse to work due to the danger of being exposed to the hazard. To legally refuse dangerous work, the following conditions must apply: 

• Your employer failed to fix an unsafe hazard when asked to do so;
• Your refusal to work was made in “good faith,” which means you genuinely believed you would be in imminent danger if you continued working;
• A reasonable person would agree that the unsafe hazard presented a real threat of severe injury or death;
• There was not enough time to go through the proper channel to get the hazard corrected. For instance, notifying the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) so they may inspect. 

When these conditions apply, you can notify your employer that you refuse to work until the hazard is resolved. You can also ask to be assigned other work, but no matter what, it is best to remain at the job until your employer orders you to leave unless you are in imminent danger. 

How to Notify Osha of an Unsafe Hazard at Work

OSHA stands for the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. It is a federal agency within the United States Department of Labor. OSHA’s primary mission is to ensure safe and healthy working conditions for employees by enforcing standards and regulations.

To file a complaint with OSHA, you can do so online and file it from your personal device if you are concerned about confidentiality. Other options include: 

• Faxing or mailing the OSHA complaint form to your local OSHA Regional office.
• Calling your local OSHA Regional Office to discuss your complaint.

If you do tell your employer you are enforcing your right to refuse dangerous work, immediately call your local OSHA office or the toll-free number (800)-321-OSHA.

What Happens if an Employer Retaliates Against Me for Refusing to Work?

All California workers have a right to safe and healthy working conditions. If you experience retaliation, such as termination, demotion, or other adverse actions, after refusing dangerous work, consult a trusted Orange County Employment Attorney. Retaliation for raising legitimate safety concerns is unlawful, and an attorney can provide guidance on your rights and potential legal actions to hold your employer accountable.

In addition, you can file a discrimination complaint within 30 days, either online or by calling your local OSHA office. A member of their staff will contact you to discuss your complaint, ask questions, and will then investigate. Once they gather information from your employer and speak to witnesses, if necessary, they will take action if there is evidence of retaliation. For example, requiring that your job, earnings, position, or benefits be restored, and possibly a compensation award for any resulting damages (e.g., lost income, emotional distress, humiliation, etc.).