Can you get unemployment if you point out safety violations to your boss?

This sounds like wrongful termination to me. In Washington state, you can't be fired for reporting safety violations - that's protected activity under whistleblower laws. When you file your UI claim with Washington ESD, make sure to explain exactly what happened and mention that you believe it was retaliation for reporting safety concerns.

You should definitely qualify for benefits. Retaliation for reporting safety issues isn't misconduct under Washington unemployment law. The burden will be on your employer to prove you were actually fired for performance problems, not for speaking up about legitimate safety concerns.

I had something similar happen to me last year. Couldn't get through to Washington ESD for weeks to explain my situation and was stressed they'd just approve the employer's side of the story. Finally found this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helped me get connected to an actual person at Washington ESD. They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ. Made all the difference in getting my case properly reviewed.

ugh this is exactly why I hate speaking up at work. employers always find ways to get back at you even when you're trying to keep everyone safe. at least you should get unemployment though since it's clearly retaliation

Washington ESD will investigate both sides of the story during adjudication. Since you're claiming the termination was retaliatory, they'll look at the timeline - how soon after you reported safety issues were you fired, what documentation exists about performance problems, etc. Keep all your records organized.

You might also want to file a complaint with Washington State Department of Labor & Industries about the safety violations. Even though you're no longer working there, it could help protect other workers and strengthen your unemployment case.

Been through this exact situation three years ago. Reported unsafe ladder conditions, got fired two weeks later for 'attitude problems.' Washington ESD approved my claim after about a month of back and forth. The key is being able to prove the timeline and that your safety concerns were legitimate.

Make sure when you file your weekly claims you're actively job searching. Washington ESD requires 3 job search activities per week and you need to keep a log. Don't let the stress of this situation make you forget about the ongoing requirements.

One more thing - if your employer contests your claim (which they probably will given the circumstances), don't panic. Claimyr can also help you prepare for any hearings or additional documentation requests from Washington ESD. Having professional help navigating the system really takes the stress out of it.

Document everything NOW while it's fresh in your memory. Write down exact dates, times, who was present when you reported safety issues, what their responses were, any witnesses to the unsafe conditions. This stuff is easy to forget but crucial for your case.

this is BS that workers have to worry about getting fired for pointing out dangerous stuff. hope you get your benefits approved quickly

When you file your claim, be very clear in the separation reason section that you believe the termination was retaliatory. Don't just put 'fired' - explain that it was retaliation for reporting safety violations. The more specific you are upfront, the better.

Also consider contacting an employment attorney for a consultation. Even if you don't pursue a wrongful termination lawsuit, they can advise you on how to present your unemployment case most effectively.

The Washington State Attorney General's office also has resources about whistleblower protections. Might be worth checking out their website to better understand your rights in this situation.

had a coworker go through this exact thing two years ago - reported blocked fire exits, got canned the next week for 'restructuring.' took about 6 weeks but washington esd approved the claim once they reviewed everything

Just want to say you did the right thing reporting those safety issues. Too many workers stay quiet because they're scared of exactly what happened to you. At least in Washington we have decent unemployment protections for whistleblowers.

One practical tip - when you file your initial claim, don't wait to start your job search activities. Even though you'll probably go into adjudication, you still need to be meeting the work search requirements for when your claim gets approved.

Keep us updated on how it goes! Cases like yours are important because they show other workers that they have rights and protections when they speak up about safety issues.

Quick question - did you report the safety issues in writing or just verbally? Written reports usually carry more weight in these retaliation cases.

Another thought - if you have any coworkers who witnessed the safety issues or your conversations with management, their statements could be valuable. Even if they're still employed and scared to get involved officially, they might be willing to provide information to Washington ESD.

This is a really strong case for unemployment benefits. Washington state has robust protections for workers who report safety violations, and the timing here is pretty damning - three days between raising concerns and termination is textbook retaliation. When you file your claim, emphasize that you were terminated for protected activity (reporting safety hazards) rather than any legitimate performance issues. The fact that you have no prior write-ups or disciplinary actions will work heavily in your favor during adjudication. Make sure to gather all your documentation - photos of safety violations, any emails or texts about the issues, and definitely find that email you sent to the safety coordinator. That written evidence will be crucial.