Occupational Safety and Health Administration

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration, commonly known as OSHA, is the U.S. federal agency responsible for developing and enforcing workplace safety and health standards designed to protect employees from job-related hazards, injuries, and illnesses. OSHA sets specific regulations covering a wide range of workplace conditions, and it has the authority to conduct inspections and issue citations and penalties for violations. OSHA's regulations span numerous areas, including requirements around proper handling of hazardous materials, machinery safety standards, personal protective equipment, and recordkeeping requirements for workplace injuries and illnesses. Employers covered by OSHA are also generally required to provide a workplace free from recognized hazards likely to cause serious harm, in addition to complying with the agency's more specific, industry-tailored standards. Beyond enforcement, OSHA also plays an educational role, offering training resources and guidance to help employers understand and meet their safety obligations. Companies operating in industries with elevated safety risks, such as manufacturing, construction, or warehousing, typically maintain dedicated safety programs and training specifically designed to ensure ongoing OSHA compliance and to protect their workforce from preventable workplace injuries.