Union Pacific Illegally Fired Worker Over Safety Concerns

The U.S. Department of Labor found that Union Pacific Railroad Co. unlawfully terminated an employee who refused to work during severe weather, citing concerns about lightning and federal safety standards. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) determined the railroad violated the Federal Railroad Safety Act.

The investigation began after a North Little Rock yardman alerted management to nearby lightning and relevant federal safety regulations. OSHA found that Union Pacific removed the employee from service and subsequently terminated their employment after the worker raised these safety concerns.

The Federal Railroad Safety Act protects employees who report safety violations. The Department of Labor's findings remind employers of their obligation to comply with safety regulations and to avoid retaliating against workers who report potential hazards.