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The workers state and federal government deem as essential to the function of society during the COVID-19 pandemic, such as janitors, grocery store staff and healthcare professionals are risking a lot right now by going to work. The U.S. Department of Labor's (DOL) Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) wants these workers to know they can and should report concerns to authorities.

The DOL issued a statement last week reminding employers that it is illegal for them to retaliate against workers for the fact that they reported unsafe and unhealthy work conditions during this pandemic.

"Employees have the right to safe and healthy workplaces," says Loren Sweatt, principal deputy assistant secretary at OSHA. "Any worker who believes that their employers is retaliating against them for reporting unsafe working conditions should contact OSHA immediately."

Workers who believe their employer illegally retaliated against them for exercising their whistleblower rights can file a complaint by going online or calling 1-800-321-OSHA.

Employees are protected by more than 20 whistleblower statues, which can be viewed here.