Frequently Asked Questions

What Federal Laws
Protect Environmental Whistleblowers?

Seven major federal environmental laws (Clean Air, Toxic Substances, Clean Water, Atomic Energy, Solid Waste, Safe Drinking Water and Superfund) have special provisions protecting employees whistleblowers. When used, these laws have been effective in protecting employees who expose public health and safety violations.

Who Is Protected?

Almost any employee, whether employed in the private sector or by a local, state or federal government agency.

Who Can File a Complaint?

Any employee who believes he or she has been discriminated against in retaliation for "blowing the whistle" on a safety problem or environmental violation, or for engaging in other activity protected under the law.

What is Illegal Discrimination?

Almost any adverse change to the whistleblower's terms and conditions of employment is prohibited. This includes a wide range of actions form reprimands and down-graded evaluations to terminations and blacklisting.

Where Should Complaints Be Filed?

These laws are administered by the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). Complaints must be filed in writing and should be filed with theOSHA regional offices of the DOL and/or mailed to:

Assistant Secretary

Office of the Assistant Secretary

Occupational Safety and Health Administration

U.S. Department of Labor

Washington, DC 20210

What Are the Statutes Of Limitations?

A Complaint under six of the environmental statutes must be filed with the DOL in writing within 30 days of the time an employees learns that he or she will be, or has been, subjected to discrimination, harassment or retaliation.

Do Other Laws Protect Whistleblowers?

Many states have enacted laws to protect whistleblowers. Most of these laws have a longer statue of limitations and other benefits unavailable under federal law.

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