OSHA orders reinstatement after Oklahoma inspector fired over pipeline safety concerns
OKLAHOMA CITY (UI) — The U.S. Department of Labor has ordered a New Mexico inspection firm to reinstate a worker who was fired after raising safety concerns during a gas pipeline installation project in Oklahoma.
The case, investigated by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, centers on Legacy Energy and Distribution LLC. Investigators found the employee halted work using stop-work authority after identifying potential violations and requested independent testing, which later confirmed the concerns.
OSHA said the company terminated the inspector following the incident, citing internal policy issues. However, investigators determined the dismissal violated protections under the Pipeline Safety Improvement Act, which bars retaliation against workers who report safety issues.
The agency ordered the company to reinstate the employee and provide back pay, interest and damages totaling more than $35,000.
Officials said the case underscores federal protections for workers who report safety concerns during pipeline construction and other regulated activities.
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