Final answer:
The correct option is B). Employees are protected when discussing safety concerns with their employer by whistleblower protection laws, which allow them to report concerns and participate in inspections without fear of retaliation.
Step-by-step explanation:
What protects employees when discussing safety concerns with their employer is b) Whistleblower protection. Under various laws such as the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA), employees are granted specific rights regarding health and safety in the workplace. They have the right to file a confidential complaint with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), receive information and training about workplace hazards, and participate in OSHA inspections. Moreover, the Civil Service Reform Act of 1978, the Whistleblower Protection Act of 1989, and the Whistleblower Protection Enhancement Act of 2012 offer safeguards for employees who act as whistleblowers, ensuring they can raise concerns without fear of retaliation or discrimination.