When was OSHA established and what is its primary purpose?

OSHA, or the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, was established in 1970 with the primary purpose of providing safe and healthful working conditions for employees. The creation of OSHA was a significant step in labor protection, responding to the growing concern over workplace safety and health issues that had become evident in various industries. The agency was formed under the Occupational Safety and Health Act, which was signed into law by President Nixon, and its mission is to ensure that employers take responsibility for maintaining safe workplaces, thereby reducing accidents, injuries, and fatalities on the job.

Understanding the historical context of OSHA's establishment helps clarify its role in modern workplaces. The agency is tasked with setting and enforcing standards and providing training, outreach, education, and assistance to ensure that safety regulations are followed effectively. This scope is critically important for optimizing worker health and safety, which remains a priority in various industries today.