Occupational Safety and Health Act

• Workers in Illinois are protected by the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970. It states that employees have the right to work in an environment free from dangerous toxins, excessive noise levels, mechanical dangers, heat or cold stress and unsanitary conditions. It also grants employees the right to an education on safe working conditions and how to control or eliminate occupational hazards. The act covers employers in a variety of fields, from factories to law offices and colleges.
  
  

First Aid

• Access to adequate first aid is an important part of all workplace safety and health programs. OSHA laws in Illinois require that there be personnel trained in first aid techniques and that they be readily accessible to all employees. They also require that all employees have access to proper first aid supplies. The entire workforce should be taught to recognize the signs of a medical emergency. It can mean the difference between life, death and serious injury.
  
  

Wage Payment and Collection Act

• This act regulates when, where and how often wages must be paid. It states that deductions from wages or other forms of compensation without the employee's consent are illegal. If there is a dispute between workers and their employers, the Illinois Department of Labor will provide assistance to the workers. It will help them collect wages and compensation, including unused vacation pay, commissions, bonuses or other fringe benefits. However, state and federal government employees are exempt.
  
  

Child Labor Law

• The state of Illinois OSHA requirements regulate the employment of workers 16 and under. Anyone age 16 and under must get an employment certificate. The purpose of the certificate is to verify workers' ages, that they are old enough to work, in good physical health, and that the job will not interfere with school. They are also prohibited from working in hazardous occupations. Hours of employment must be between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m., except during the summer.