OSHA issues final rule on pipeline safety whistleblower procedures
OSHA today published final procedures for handling whistleblower complaints under the Pipeline Safety Improvement Act of 2002 (PSIA). The final rule is identical to an interim final rule published a year ago.
The Pipeline Safety Improvement Act, signed in December 2002, applies to pipeline facilities that transport natural gas or hazardous liquids in interstate commerce. It prohibits pipeline operators from firing or taking adverse action against workers who report concerns about pipeline safety to either the employer or the government. Complainants have 180 days from the alleged discrimination to file with OSHA.