OSHA Issues New Policies and Procedures for Resolving Whistleblower Disputes
The new process is an early resolution process.
According to an agency news release, OSHA has issued policies and procedures for applying a new process for resolving whistleblower disputes. The process is part of an early resolution process that is part of a regional Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) program.
This program gives whistleblower parties the change to negotiate a settlement with the assistance of a neutral, confidential OSHA rep with expertise in whistleblower investigations. The ADR Act requires that each federal agency "adopt a policy that addresses the use of alternative means of dispute resolution and case management."
"OSHA receives several thousand whistleblower complaints for investigation each year," said Assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational Safety and Health Dr. David Michaels. "The Alternative Dispute Resolution process can be a valuable alternative to the expensive and time consuming process of an investigation and litigation. It will provide whistleblower complainants and respondents the option of exploring voluntary resolution of their disputes outside of the traditional investigative process."