Who Are These OSHA Folks Anyhow?
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is a key agency within the U.S. Department of Labor, focused on ensuring workplace safety and health standards for workers nationwide.
OSHA enforces safety regulations and conducts inspections to promote secure job environments.
Founded on the belief that every worker deserves a safe workplace, OSHA requires employers to comply with its standards to foster healthy working conditions.
How and When Did OSHA Form
In 1970, Congress recognized alarming statistics, including over 14,000 worker fatalities and 2.5 million disabilities due to job-related incidents, prompting the enactment of the Occupational Safety and Health Act.
This marked a significant move towards safer work conditions.
What Does OSHA Stand For?
Established under the Act, OSHA’s mission is to oversee and enforce workplace safety protections.
Since its creation, OSHA has significantly reduced work fatalities and injuries, contributing to the near eradication of brown lung disease in the textile industry.
Does OSHA Cover Healthcare?
OSHA applies to all employees and employers under federal jurisdiction, although it does not cover self-employed individuals or immediate family members of farm workers without outside help.
OSHA’s website, osha.gov, provides resources and training for workplace safety. This helps everyone recognize potential hazards and promotes a safer work environment.
