Get help with workplace safety, injuries, and worker rights
MassCOSH provides workplace safety help, worker rights information, and guidance for people dealing with unsafe job conditions, injuries, or health concerns.
Start here
What kind of help do you need?
Pick the path that fits your situation—each card opens more detail, links, or next steps.
I have a workplace safety concern
Learn what to document, who to contact, and how to take the next step.
I was hurt or exposed on the job
Find information to help you respond, document what happened, and seek support.
I need general help or information
Explore worker resources, guidebooks, surveys, and support pathways.
How we help
How MassCOSH supports workers and families
MassCOSH works to help workers and communities respond to unsafe conditions, understand their rights, and connect with trusted education, advocacy, and support.
Practical guidance
Clear next steps for workplace safety concerns, injuries, and hazards.
Worker education
Resources that help people understand job safety, health risks, and worker protections.
Community support
Connections to programs, organizers, and support networks that strengthen worker voice.
Advocacy pathways
Opportunities to move from individual concern to broader collective action.
First steps
What to do if you have a workplace safety issue
If you are dealing with an unsafe job, injury, or exposure, these are the first steps to take.
Document the issue
Write down what happened, where it happened, who was involved, and when it occurred
Protect your health
Seek medical care or immediate support when needed, especially after an injury or exposure.
Gather information
Save photos, records, names, notices, or other details that may help explain the problem.
Reach out for help
Use MassCOSH resources or contact the team for guidance on your next step.
Tools & guides
Guides and resources
Curated checklists, action steps, and education materials you can use right away. When you need reports, deep reads, or the full library, follow the links below:
Public Employee Health
In 1970, Congress passed the federal Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) creating comprehensive worker protection standards; all private sector employees were covered. In MA, Public Sector employees (outside the Executive Branch) were provided some protection by MGL 149 Section 6 which predate
Health & Safety Survey
Sample Health & Safety Checklist/Survey Below is the Sample Health & Safety Checklist/Survey. Use this survey as a tool to identify and describe hazards in specific departments of your office or workplace. Download the Health Survey PDF
Guidebook
If you’re concerned about workplace hazards, there are practical steps you can take to protect your health and safety, supported by fact sheets for guidance. If you’re part of a union, work with your steward to raise concerns. Workers and unions should approach health and safety improvements like an organizing effort—building pressure on the employer as needed to achieve meaningful change.
Action Steps
Action Steps for Injured Workers If you are injured or become sick because of your work, you have a right to medical treatment and, in some cases, wage replacement benefits under workers compensation. Workers' Compensation is a type of insurance that all Massachusetts employers are required to have
Ajude-nos a fazer a diferença
Seus combustíveis de apoio formação, advocacia, e organizando para que os trabalhadores possam voltar para casa em segurança.
Community
Support for families and communities
Unsafe work affects more than one person. MassCOSH also supports families and communities through education, outreach, and shared resources that help people respond together.
Family guidance
Family-facing support or educational materials
Community education
Shared learning, outreach, or advocacy support
Explore more
Related support pathways
Training, events, and publications that connect to the help you’re looking for—jump to a hub or browse when you’re ready to go deeper.
Programs
Explore programs that support worker health, safety, and advocacy.
Events
Attend trainings, workshops, or gatherings that connect people to action.
Publications
Browse reports, fact sheets, and materials you can read or share.
FAQ
Common questions about workplace safety
Short answers to questions workers and families often search for…
How do I know if there is a safety or health problem at my workplace?
Warning signs may include:
- No training
- Broken tools or machinery
- Unsafe chemicals
- No protective gear
- Heat stress
- Repetitive injuries
- Violence threats
- No emergency plan
- Pressure to work unsafely
Employers are required to provide a workplace free from recognized serious hazards.
OSHA Worker Rights: https://www.osha.gov/workers
What should I do if my workplace is unsafe?
- Document the hazard
- Report it internally if safe
- File with OSHA or DLS
- Seek support from MassCOSH
- If immediate danger exists, seek emergency help
You should never be punished for raising genuine safety concerns.
What are my rights if I get injured at work?
In Massachusetts, you may be entitled to Workers’ Compensation, which can include:
- Medical treatment
- Partial wage replacement
- Disability benefits
- Protection from retaliation
Report injuries to your employer immediately, preferably in writing.
Massachusetts Workers’ Compensation
https://www.mass.gov/workers-compensation
Who can help me with workplace safety concerns?
MassCOSH can help you understand your options and connect you with support.
Reach out
Need help figuring out the next step?
Reach out to MassCOSH and we’ll help point you toward the right resource, support path, or next action.