OSHA: Occupational Safety & Health Administration

The Occupational Safety & Health Act of 1970 established the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) within the U.S. Department of Labor.

The main duties of OSHA include:

• Encourage the reduction of workplace hazards.
• Provide for occupational & health research.
• Establish separate but dependent responsibilities and rights for employers and employees.
• Maintain a reporting and recordkeeping system to monitor job injuries.
• Establish training programs.
• Develop mandatory safety and health standards.
• Provide for development and approval of state occupational safety and health programs.
• Conduct workplace inspections, issue orders, and invoke penalties for non-compliance.