Most people want to do right by their employers. They work hard to meet specific performance metrics and to comply with all company policies. Employees generally recognize that they have better job security and the potential for enhanced income when the company does well.
However, sometimes employees find themselves in a very difficult situation. They recognize that the company has violated the law. Improper billing practices, unsafe work environments and a host of other company decisions can force workers to make difficult decisions. Sometimes, employees realize that they need to act as whistleblowers to protect themselves and others.
Whistleblowers have protection under federal statutes and state laws. Employers generally cannot retaliate against or punish whistleblowers for addressing illegal and unsafe company practices. What behaviors might make a worker a whistleblower?
1. Reporting issues internally
Perhaps one supervisor has started putting efficiency above worker safety. They pressure employees into bypassing safety procedures or doing their jobs without certain equipment.
In such scenarios, reporting the matter internally can result in changes that protect employees. Workers who notify management or human resources within a company about misconduct or safety issues become whistleblowers who have protection from retaliation.
2. Notifying regulatory organizations
Perhaps a worker is already aware that management knows about certain company practices. Maybe they have attempted to address the matter internally, but the company refused to act.
Particularly when workers’ safety is at risk, employees may feel compelled to notify regulatory organizations about misconduct or inappropriate work environments. Providing information to local or state authorities about company misconduct or workplace safety issues can also make an employee a whistleblower.
3. Filing a specialized lawsuit
Sometimes, workers recognize that their employers have engaged in fraudulent billing practices. Those in the railroad and health care sectors have the option of taking legal action on behalf of the government.
Employees with evidence of fraudulent billing practices can file a qui tam lawsuit. Under the False Claims Act, workers can serve as relators who take legal action on behalf of the government. They receive protection as whistleblowers and may even be eligible for a portion of the funds recovered by a successful lawsuit.
Those intending to act as whistleblowers often need help protecting themselves. Companies may mistreat whistleblowers even though the law forbids doing so. Receiving proper support throughout the whistleblowing process can help workers protect themselves and take action if their company violates their rights.