A federal investigation has determined that a North Dakota railroad company unlawfully retaliated against an employee who reported an injury and raised safety concerns. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) conducted the investigation following a complaint by an Enderlin-based claims representative of Soo Line Railroad Co.

The employee, who was involved in indoor workplace construction, reported injuries believed to be related to dust and chemical exposure. After discussing these concerns with their supervisor and co-workers, the employee faced suspension and termination despite protections under the Federal Railway Safety Act.

OSHA concluded that Soo Line Railroad violated the employee's rights. Consequently, the agency ordered the company to reinstate the worker, provide over $45,000 in back wages, and pay $155,000 in additional damages. Furthermore, negative reports must be expunged from the employee’s personnel record.

“Employees must be able to exercise their legal rights regarding workplace safety freely without fear of employer retaliation,” stated OSHA Regional Administrator Jennifer S. Rous. She emphasized that this case underscores the Department of Labor's commitment to safeguarding workers' rights.

Soo Line Railroad is headquartered in Minneapolis and operates as a significant subsidiary of Canadian Pacific Kansas City Limited. Both parties involved have 30 days to contest or request a hearing with the department’s Office of Administrative Law Judges.

OSHA upholds whistleblower provisions across more than 20 statutes concerning various sectors including workplace safety, environmental regulations, and financial reform among others. Further information on whistleblower protections can be accessed via OSHA’s Whistleblower Protection Programs webpage.

The U.S. Department of Labor maintains confidentiality regarding employees involved in such complaints.