Introduction to OSHA and Basic Safety Orientation
What OSHA is, who it covers, how inspections, citations and worker rights work, and a first look at the common hazards that every general industry worker should recognise.
Pages in this chapter (1 of 4)
1.1 About OSHA
The Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, the OSH Act, was passed by the United States Congress to assure, so far as possible, every working man and woman in the nation safe and healthful working conditions and to preserve human resources. Under the Act the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, OSHA, was set up inside the Department of Labor. It has authority to regulate health and safety conditions for nearly all private employers.
Who is covered
Most private sector employers and their employees are covered, either directly by federal OSHA or through an OSHA approved state plan. Public employees in state and local government are covered only in states that have an approved plan, and some groups, such as the self employed and some farms, are outside the Act. Check the current coverage rules for your own case.
Standards and the General Duty Clause
OSHA standards cover general industry, construction, maritime and agriculture. Where there is no specific standard, the General Duty Clause applies. It requires each employer to furnish a place of employment free from recognised hazards that are causing, or are likely to cause, death or serious physical harm to employees.
A study aid, not published or endorsed by IOSH or OSHA. Laws and limits differ between countries.