The Ombuds Office for Oregon Workers is stepping out its doors to bridge the language barrier for Spanish-speaking workers. According to the Oregon Press Release, understanding workers' rights, benefits, protections, and responsibilities can be a labyrinth, even more so when language adds an extra layer of confusion. To cut through the noise, the office is hosting two outreach events in September specifically targeted to assist the Spanish-speaking workforce.
Barbra Anderson, Ombuds for Oregon Workers, emphasized the value of such engagements. "It is extremely important for workers to know that there are people available to help them for free," Anderson said. "Workers have the right to a safe and healthy workplace. We can help them understand they rights, benefits, protections, and responsibilities," according to the Oregon Newsroom.
The Ombuds Office, known for its independent advocacy for workers, enables them to navigate workers' compensation systems, workplace safety, and health laws and rules. The staff's presence at the upcoming events aims to be a beacon for those needing guidance and support.
The first event will occur on Saturday, Sept. 7, at Gresham Library from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The second will follow on Wednesday, Sept. 25, at Newport Library from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The services offered include raising workplace safety and health concerns, reporting an on-the-job accident, filing a workers' compensation claim, understanding time-loss and medical benefits, and returning to work after an injury, all outlined in the original announcement.
