How Do You File an OSHA Complaint?
Learn how to file an OSHA complaint, when to use the safety-and-health complaint path, and which filing options can lead to the fastest response.
To file an OSHA complaint about unsafe or unhealthy working conditions, use OSHA's safety and health complaint path online, by phone, by mail or email, or through a local OSHA office. File as soon as possible after noticing the hazard. OSHA says a signed complaint is more likely to result in an onsite inspection, but workers can also file anonymously.
Which OSHA complaint path fits
Unsafe condition
Safety and health complaint
File as soon as possible
Want onsite inspection
Signed written complaint
Not guaranteed
Need privacy
Anonymous complaint option
May affect follow-up
Retaliation after speaking up
Whistleblower complaint
Deadlines can be short
Need filing help
Local OSHA office
State-plan routing may apply
Safety complaints and retaliation complaints are different
Use the safety and health complaint path for hazards. Use OSHA's whistleblower path when the employer fired, demoted, disciplined, threatened, or otherwise retaliated after protected activity.
File the complaint
- 1Write down the employer name, worksite address, hazard location, and what is unsafe or unhealthy.
- 2Decide whether you can sign the complaint or need to file anonymously.
- 3Use OSHA's online complaint path, call OSHA, send a written complaint, or contact the local OSHA office.
- 4Separate any retaliation details into the whistleblower complaint path if needed.
- 5Keep a copy of the complaint and any confirmation or office contact information.
FAQ
Can I file an OSHA complaint anonymously?
Yes. OSHA says workers can file a safety and health complaint anonymously, though a signed complaint is more likely to lead to an onsite inspection.
Does a signed OSHA complaint help?
Yes. OSHA says a signed safety and health complaint is more likely to result in an onsite inspection than an unsigned complaint.
Do I use the same OSHA form for retaliation?
No. Unsafe or unhealthy conditions use the safety and health complaint path. Retaliation or threats after speaking up use OSHA's whistleblower complaint path.
Sources & method
We reviewed these references while writing this answer. Figures are estimates — confirm safety-critical work with a professional. Last updated June 7, 2026.
- File a ComplaintOSHA · osha.govSupports the safety and health complaint process, filing channels, anonymous complaints, signed complaints, and the split from whistleblower complaints.
- OSHA Offices by StateOSHA · osha.govSupports the local-office lookup path for workers who want to file or ask questions by phone, mail, email, or in person.