Published by Report 2 HR · Updated October 31, 2026 · 3 min read
QUICK ANSWER
If there is immediate danger, get to safety and call emergency services. Otherwise describe the hazard clearly, tell your employer in writing, and keep a copy. You can also complain to OSHA or, in California, Cal/OSHA, and ask that your name be kept confidential.
If it is urgent
Immediate danger
If someone is in danger or injured, call your local emergency number first. Report 2 HR is not an emergency service.
Describe the hazard
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What it is and exactly where (building, room, equipment).
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When you noticed it and whether it is ongoing.
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What could happen or already has (injuries, near misses).
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Who knows, who you told, what they said.
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Photos or logs you hold, described rather than attached unless you choose.
Fictional example
“On Feb 2, the rear fire exit in the warehouse was blocked by pallets. I told my lead, Casey Demo, who said it would be moved later. On Feb 9 the pallets were still there. I took a photo on my phone. I’m asking for the exit to be cleared and a written confirmation.”
Names and events are made up for illustration.
You can draft the description, timeline and evidence list privately, then copy it into an email to your employer or an agency form.
Private by design: nothing is sent to HR or to Report 2 HR. You decide what to do with the finished document.
Tell your employer in writing
A short email to your supervisor or the safety contact, with the date, creates a record. Ask for a written reply and what will be done by when. Keep a copy.
Federal OSHA and California’s Cal/OSHA
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OSHA: you can file online, by phone, mail or in person; OSHA says you have the right to file a confidential complaint, and that a signed complaint is more likely to result in an onsite inspection. Submit it as soon as possible after noticing the hazard.
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Cal/OSHA (California workplaces): call or email the enforcement district office for your worksite. The name of a person who submits a complaint must be kept confidential by law unless they ask otherwise. You do not need to know the exact standard. Cal/OSHA either inspects or investigates by letter, and for a letter investigation the employer must respond in writing within 14 days.
Which agency covers you depends on where and for whom you work. California workplaces are generally covered by Cal/OSHA; check the agency pages if you are unsure.
If you are treated badly for reporting
Cal/OSHA says employees have the right to file a complaint without fear of retaliation, and that retaliation complaints go to the Labor Commissioner’s Office. Federal OSHA’s whistleblower filing deadlines range from 30 to 180 days depending on the law, so act promptly and write down what changes and when.
General information only
This is general educational information, not legal advice, and it has not yet been reviewed by an attorney. Laws and agency rules change and depend on your facts. Report 2 HR is a writing tool: it does not investigate, file complaints or protect deadlines.
Official sources
These pages were read when this article was written (October 31, 2026). Rules and deadlines change; check the source before you rely on it. Federal and California guidance are listed separately.