HR and Workplace Safety: Rhode Island
Federal law and guidance on this subject should be reviewed together with this section.
Author: Leanne Coffman
Summary
- Private sector employers in Rhode Island are under the jurisdiction of the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). See Federal OSHA.
- The state has additional requirements that apply to private and public sector workplaces, including construction work, safe patient handling and hazardous chemicals in the workplace. See Additional State-Specific Compliance Requirements.
- Rhode Island has a three-year statute of limitations for individuals to sue for personal injuries, such as for injuries or illnesses caused by toxic chemicals. See Statute of Limitations for Toxic Chemicals.
- Drivers are prohibited from using a hand-held wireless communications device or phone while driving. See Driving Policies.
- If there is reasonable suspicion of drug use, post-accident testing is allowed. See Drug and Alcohol Testing as a Safety Measure.