The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is the federal agency responsible for ensuring safe and healthy working conditions for workers in the United States. Established in 1970, OSHA is a part of the United States Department of Labor and is responsible for setting and enforcing standards for workplace safety and health.
OSHA’s mission is to “assure safe and healthful working conditions for working men and women by setting and enforcing standards and by providing training, outreach, education and assistance.” OSHA works to ensure that employers provide their employees with a safe and healthy work environment. This includes providing information and training on safety and health hazards, setting standards for safety and health, and enforcing those standards.
OSHA sets standards for a variety of workplace hazards, including hazardous chemicals, noise, and machine guarding. OSHA also sets standards for personal protective equipment, such as hard hats, safety glasses, and respirators. OSHA also provides guidance on how to prevent and respond to workplace accidents and illnesses.
OSHA also provides training and education to employers and employees on workplace safety and health. OSHA offers a variety of training programs, including online courses, seminars, and workshops. OSHA also provides outreach and education materials, such as posters, fact sheets, and videos.
OSHA also provides assistance to employers and employees in the form of on-site consultations. OSHA’s on-site consultation program provides free and confidential advice to employers on how to identify and correct workplace hazards.
OSHA is the foundation of workplace safety and health in the United States. By setting and enforcing standards, providing training and education, and offering assistance, OSHA helps ensure that employers provide their employees with a safe and healthy work environment.
