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The Occupational Safety and Health Act and OSHA Standards

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Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Act of 1970

The OSH Act of 1970 was enacted to assure safe and healthful working conditions for working individuals. This includes:

  • Authorizing enforcement of the standards developed under the Act.
  • Assisting and encouraging states in their efforts to assure safe and healthful working conditions.
  • Providing for research, information, education, and training in the field of occupational safety.

The Act requires employers to provide employees with an environment free from recognized hazards such as exposure to toxic chemicals and infectious agents, excessive noise levels, mechanical dangers, heat or cold stress, and conditions that are causing or are likely to cause death or serious physical harm to employees.

Each employee shall comply with occupational safety and health standards and all rules and regulations applicable to his/her own actions and conduct.

OSHA, Occupational Safety and Health Administration written on a chalkboard sitting on a desk.

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Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Standards

OSHA standards include:

  • Rules that prescribe methods employers must use to protect their employees from hazards.
  • Classifies potential chemical hazards and communicates information concerning hazards and appropriate protective measures to employees.
  • Develops workplace safety and health standards based upon research, demonstrations, experiments, and other related information as appropriate.
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