OSHA Orders Houston Contractors to Reinstate Workers Fired After Raising Asbestos Concerns
OSHA has ordered two Houston construction companies to reinstate workers fired after raising asbestos safety concerns, citing violations of federal whistleblower protections under environmental laws.
- By Stasia DeMarco
- Feb 13, 2026
The U.S. Department of Labor has ordered two Houston-based construction companies and their owners to reinstate and compensate two workers who were terminated after raising concerns about asbestos safety during hotel repairs following Hurricane Beryl.
The department’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration investigated a whistleblower complaint filed by the former employees of Rise Construction LLC and Niko Group LLC. The workers alleged they were fired after reporting concerns about a lack of asbestos training and certification, insufficient personal protective equipment, and the improper disposal of asbestos-containing materials.
OSHA determined the terminations violated federal whistleblower protections under the Clean Air Act, the Solid Waste Disposal Act, and the Toxic Substances Control Act. The agency ordered the companies to reinstate the workers and pay more than $200,000 in back wages, interest, and damages.
OSHA enforces 25 federal whistleblower statutes that protect employees from retaliation for reporting concerns related to workplace safety, environmental compliance, and public health.
About the Author
Stasia DeMarco is the Content Editor for OH&S.