Occupational Safety and Health Act

Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) is a federal law in the United States that was enacted in 1970. The Act was established to ensure safe and healthy working conditions for working men and women by setting and enforcing standards and by providing training, outreach, education and assistance.

History

The Occupational Safety and Health Act was signed into law on December 29, 1970 by President Richard Nixon. The Act was a response to public outcry over rising injury and death rates on the job. The Act established the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), a federal agency under the United States Department of Labor.

Provisions

The Act provides for the general duty of employers to provide a workplace free from recognized hazards that are causing or are likely to cause death or serious physical harm to employees. It also provides for the creation of specific standards to regulate specific workplace hazards. The Act also established the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), a research agency focused on the study of worker safety and health.

Enforcement

The Act is enforced by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. OSHA conducts inspections of workplaces for compliance with the Act and its regulations. Employers found in violation of the Act or its regulations can be subject to fines and other penalties.

Impact

The Occupational Safety and Health Act has had a significant impact on workplace safety in the United States. Since its enactment, workplace fatalities have decreased by more than 65 percent and occupational injury and illness rates have declined by 67 percent.

Criticisms

Despite its successes, the Act has been criticized for its enforcement mechanisms, which some argue are insufficient to deter violations. Others argue that the Act does not go far enough in protecting workers from occupational hazards.

See also

• Worker's compensation
• Workplace safety
• Industrial hygiene

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