All workers in the United States have rights when it comes to the environment where they work. This includes both the physical environment and the mental atmosphere or culture of the workplace. When it comes to labor laws, many were initially enacted with the traditional factory worker in mind. Here are some rights that you may or may not be aware that you have as an employee.

Not to Be Discriminated Against

As an employee, you have the right to not be discriminated against by your fellow employees and employer. The most common types of discrimination this law is trying to protect against is discrimination due to race, gender, political association, color, religion, and national origin. These are just some of the many areas that are considered discrimination in the workplace.

Safe Working Conditions

OSHA, the Occupational Health and Safety Administration, is probably the first thing that comes to mind when you hear about safe working conditions. This administration is in charge of enforcing U.S. laws regarding working conditions. Each employee has the right to a safe working environment. For example, factory workers have the right to clean air when working from the best HVAC systems. An employer cannot force you to work in a factory that doesn’t have adequate air quality.

Collective Bargaining

You may hear collective bargaining referred to as freedom of association or something similar. This term means that both employees and employers have the right to an equal voice in terms of negotiation. You’ll most commonly see collective bargaining used by a body of employees who are negotiating terms regarding salaries, working conditions, benefits, or something else related to their employment.

Collective bargaining is done to ensure that both employers and employees interests are looked after in working contracts. The most common type of collective bargaining that you’re likely to see is through a union. These tend to be organized at places that have a large number of employees. The union will do negotiations with the employer to reach a fair agreement about specific aspects of the job for all employees in the union.

Working in America comes along with many labor rights that people in other countries just simply don’t have. By understanding what your rights are, you can ensure that they’re not being violated. Having a great working environment starts with having the labor rights that you’re naturally given as a citizen of the U.S. properly followed by your employer.