We hear fewer of these reports, but we still hear them.
I see two issues that have not been addressed.
1. What is the organizational hierarchy at the institution. Does the chair report to a Dean or Provost? That may be a "friendlier" approach than going to legal counsel or the Board of Trustees first. The Dean/Provost is likely to have a better sense of liability in this day-and-age because of ADA, Title IX, Clery, etc.
2. It is possible that the employee will be seen as a whistle-blower, and if s/he is concerned about continued employment or tenure, then the moral issue is more complicated - safety in a lab while trying to provide for family or have a career. Speaking to a mentor at the institution who understands the organization may provide some helpful insights..
Gail