Every employee in Connecticut has the right to a workplace that does not pose a serious threat to their safety or health. This right is grounded in both federal and state laws. The Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 (OSHA) provides the foundation by requiring employers to maintain hazard-free work environments. Connecticut also has its own OSHA-approved plan for public sector employees, administered through CONN-OSHA.
But what happens when conditions on the job become so dangerous that continuing work seems unreasonable—or even life-threatening?
When Can You Legally Refuse to Work?
Refusing to work due to unsafe conditions is not something to take lightly. While Connecticut law recognizes this right under specific circumstances, employees must meet a strict set of requirements in order to be protected from retaliation.
According to federal OSHA guidance, you may legally refuse to work if all the following conditions apply:
- You genuinely believe you are in imminent danger.
- A reasonable person would agree that there’s a real risk of serious injury or death.
- There is not enough time to correct the issue through normal enforcement channels (like filing an OSHA complaint).
- You have attempted to get your employer to fix the problem, and they’ve failed to act.
This framework applies broadly across industries, but employees working in high-risk settings—such as construction, manufacturing, or chemical plants—may face these situations more often.
What Is Considered “Imminent Danger”?
The term “imminent danger” has a very specific meaning in this context. It refers to any workplace condition or practice that could reasonably be expected to cause death or serious physical harm immediately or before the hazard can be eliminated through normal procedures.
Examples include:
- Exposure to toxic chemicals without proper ventilation or personal protective equipment
- Operating machinery without functioning safety guards
- Risk of electrocution due to exposed wires or water leakage near outlets
- Structural instability on a job site (e.g., collapsing scaffolding)
Vague discomfort or minor risks don’t meet the threshold. The danger must be both severe and immediate.
How to Report Unsafe Conditions in Connecticut
If you believe your working conditions are unsafe but not immediately life-threatening, the best course of action is to report the situation through the appropriate channels.
For private sector employees, OSHA is the go-to authority. You can:
- File a complaint online, by mail, or over the phone
- Request an inspection from OSHA
- Ask for confidentiality to avoid employer retaliation
For state or municipal employees in Connecticut, CONN-OSHA handles these complaints. They follow similar protocols but are specifically authorized to regulate safety in public sector workplaces.
Retaliation for Refusing to Work
Even though you may have a legal right to refuse unsafe work, many employees worry about losing their jobs or facing disciplinary action. Under Section 11(c) of the OSHA Act, it is illegal for an employer to retaliate against a worker for asserting their right to a safe workplace, including:
- Filing a safety complaint
- Participating in an OSHA inspection
- Reporting an injury
- Refusing to perform work under imminent danger
In Connecticut, if an employer retaliates, workers can file a whistleblower complaint with OSHA within 30 days of the retaliation event. Failing to meet that deadline could cause your case to be dismissed, so acting quickly is key.
The Role of Unions and Collective Bargaining
Unionized employees in Connecticut may have additional layers of protection. Collective bargaining agreements often include clauses that define unsafe work and provide steps employees can take if they encounter dangerous conditions.
Some contracts allow workers to stop work without penalty under specified unsafe circumstances. However, even in union settings, the burden often remains on the employee to show the danger was real and immediate.
What to Do If You're in an Unsafe Situation
If you believe you're being asked to work under unsafe conditions, follow this step-by-step approach:
- Document Everything – Take photos, collect witness statements, and note dates and times.
- Report Internally First – Inform your supervisor or safety officer about the issue.
- File a Complaint – If the issue is not resolved, contact OSHA or CONN-OSHA.
- Refuse to Work (If Necessary) – If the hazard is imminent, notify your employer of your refusal, explain the danger, and remain at the worksite unless ordered to leave.
- Seek Legal Help – If you experience retaliation or need advice on your rights, consider consulting with a labor law attorney.
Connecticut-Specific Labor Laws That Apply
Connecticut’s state laws supplement federal protections, especially for public employees. The Connecticut Department of Labor supports safety programs and enforces whistleblower protections under state law.
Public employees are also protected under the Connecticut Whistleblower Act, which allows workers to report not just unsafe conditions, but also violations of any state or federal law, without fear of retaliation.
This combination of federal and state frameworks gives workers in Connecticut stronger leverage than in many other states if they know how to use it.
Conclusion
Connecticut employees do not have to choose between their paycheck and their safety. While refusing to work under dangerous conditions is a serious step, the law offers protection when the threat is real and immediate. Understanding when and how to assert your rights, combined with documenting hazards and following proper procedures, can keep you both safe and legally protected.
Need Legal Help? Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law is One Phone Call Away
Navigating Connecticut work safety claims can be challenging. Fortunately, you don't need to do it alone. The experienced lawyers at Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, are available 24/7 to help you understand your legal options, gather necessary evidence, and build a strong case to secure the settlement you deserve.
Contact us now for a free legal review.