The U.S. Department of Labor has ordered an inspection company to reinstate and compensate a terminated worker who reported safety concerns during installation of a natural gas pipeline in Watonga, Oklahoma.
The department’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration investigated a whistleblower complaint filed against New Mexico-based Legacy Energy and Distribution LLC that alleged a construction crew was installing a pipeline without following federal regulations.
The complainant used “stop work authority” to halt the installation and contacted an independent, third-party testing company to verify observed concerns, which Legacy later confirmed as valid. Legacy subsequently fired the inspector, alleging failure to follow the established chain of command and complete the probationary period.
OSHA determined that Legacy wrongfully terminated the inspector for engaging in protected activities under the Pipeline Safety Improvement Act, which protects employees from retaliation for reporting violations of federal laws related to pipeline safety and security.
OSHA ordered Legacy to reinstate the employee and pay back wages, interest, and compensatory damages, totaling more than $35,000.
Source: OSHA
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