As a temporary worker in New Jersey, because you may spend a limited amount of time on any given job, employers may be tempted to forgo some of the safety training and protection you should receive. We at Parisi & Gerlanc understand that, regardless of the terms of your employment, you have the right to a safe workplace.
According to the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration, each employer and the staffing agency that assigns you to the job are responsible for preventing a workplace injury from happening to you. The staffing agency has several duties that are designed to keep you safe. There must be an understanding of what hazards may be present at a workplace before you are assigned to the job. OSHA does not waive the responsibility of the agency because there was no knowledge of the dangers. The agency is required to contact the employer to make sure that any hazards are addressed and safety precautions are taken before sending you there.
One of the major obligations employers and the agency have to you is training. Even if you are providing a specific skill, you may be sent out on jobs that have different conditions and environments. So, the staffing agency should give you basic safety training, but it is up to each employer to make sure you are prepared for the hazards at the specific facility.
OSHA demands compliance from employers, regardless of the status of employees, and you have the same rights as anyone else on the jobsite when it comes to safety. More information about workplace accidents and injuries is available on our web page.