Earlier this month, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration released new rules that protect employees under the FDA’s Food Safety Modernization Act. There is always a tension between what you want to do to help your boss or your job and what you think you should do to protect the public. Food safety is one of those industries that are woefully under-appreciated. Every worker is critical in making sure that the food supply is safe for consumption. This article will go over those expanded protections and how they may shield you from being unlawfully fired.
The act was passed in 2011 and it clarified protections for workers who report violations of the Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act. Specifically, it protects employees from being fired for reporting issues in the manufacture, transportation, distribution or import of foodstuffs. The government obviously has an interest in encouraging workers to come forward when there are issues with the food supply and this is another tool to protect workers.
Under the rule, your employer should not fire you. But if it does happen, it is up to you to report it. You can speak to an attorney on the best method to approach your unlawful firing. There are several options including administrative review by the government or filing a lawsuit.
If you believe you were unlawfully fired, then you may have an actionable claim against your employer. You may want to speak to an attorney to go over your rights and develop a legal strategy.
