The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is a regulatory agency of the United States government tasked with ensuring safe and healthful working conditions for workers by setting and enforcing standards and by providing training, outreach, education and assistance. Proposals to eliminate or significantly curtail the agency’s authority have surfaced periodically, often citing concerns about the burden of regulations on businesses.
The agency plays a critical role in preventing workplace injuries, illnesses, and fatalities. Its regulations cover a wide range of industries and hazards, aiming to protect employees from risks such as falls, chemical exposure, and equipment malfunctions. Historically, OSHA’s establishment marked a significant shift towards proactive safety measures, moving away from a system that largely relied on reactive responses to workplace incidents.