OSHA to Reject Whistleblowing Settlements That Discourage Future Reporting

Employers who reach settlements with whistleblowers can no longer include wording that could be interpreted to restrict future reporting, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration announced Friday. OSHA issued guidelines on Sept. 9 that make it clear the agency will not approve settlements containing such language. The rule extends to language that discourages future whistleblowing, while not outright prohibiting it, the agency said. Such language includes: Provisions that require the employee to advise the employer before whistleblowing. Provisions that require the employee to ...