HOW TO KNOW IF YOUR EMPLOYER IS RETALIATING AFTER A CLAIM AND WHAT YOU CAN DO ABOUT IT
Workers’ rights relating to a job-related injury have long been protected under both state and federal laws. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) calls the reporting of a work-related injury or illness a “core employee right,” and yet many work injuries go unreported every year. But why? One of the most common reasons to avoid declaring a work injury is an injured worker’s fear of employer retaliation. A study from the legal website Findlaw.com reported that 10 percent of employees fail to report injuries to their employees because of these concerns. Employer retaliation is explicitly illegal in Ohio, but both real-life examples and fear of these occurrences can be discouraging to injured workers. What’s worse, sometimes workers may not even realize that the negative repercussions they’re experiencing are actually considered retaliation under the law.
the actions of the employer or manager have a negative effect on a worker’s employment.
If you suspect you are a victim of retaliation, take action soon. Speak to your employer and ask direct questions about the changed behavior. They may have legitimate answers to your concerns. If not, express your worry about retaliation and point out the improper behavior. If the retaliation continues and your complaints don’t resolve the issue, it may be necessary to pursue legal action against your employer. To help your case, it’s vital that you document your situation fully. Get copies of the injury report andworkers’ compensation claim; any correspondence between you and your employer or coworkers pertaining to the shift in behavior; performance reviews frombefore and after your injury; and any notices you’ve received of demotion, reduction in hours, or termination. Most Ohio employers don’t engage in this shady behavior, and it’s important that workers report their injuries without fear of retaliation. But occasionally, employer retaliation occurs, and if it does, you’ll need an experienced attorney on your side to protect your rights. If you believe you’ve been the victimof employer retaliation, call theMonast LawOffice at 614-334-4649.
Recognizing Employer Retaliation (And What to Do Next)
It’s difficult to determine if your employer’s actions are simply a normal part of business, or retaliation for your claim. Sometimes, retaliatory acts are subtle, such as exclusion from certain meetings, increased supervision, or a sudden questioning of job performance. Retaliation only becomes illegal when
SUDOKU
ABBY’S APPETIZERS
GRILLED SKIRT STEAK WITH ASPARAGUS
Asparagus and steak is a classic pairing. Skirt steak packs a ton of flavor without the high price point of other cuts, and this is the best time of year to buy asparagus. So what are you waiting for? Let’s get grilling!
INGREDIENTS
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2 teaspoons crushed red pepper
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1 1/2 pounds skirt steak
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Salt and pepper to taste
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2 tablespoons canola oil
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Grated pecorino Romano cheese
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1 pound asparagus
DIRECTIONS
on desired doneness. Skirt steak is thin and will cook quickly. Let steak rest for 10 minutes. While it’s resting, grill asparagus for 6 minutes, turning once. Sprinkle cheese and crushed red pepper on asparagus. Serve alongside steak.
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Heat grill to high. Season room- temperature steak with salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon oil. Any oil with a high smoke point, such as canola, will work. Trim bottom inch of asparagus. Season with salt, pepper, and remainder of oil. Cut steak into four portions and grill for 3–5 minutes per side, depending
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Inspired by Food Network
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