The Occupational Safety and Health Act is a main federal law that covers threats to the workplace safety. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration under the U.S. Department of Labor were designed to enforce workplace safety. (Repa, pg 6.1) OSHA requires employers to provide a safe workplace, which eliminates potential dangers that could physically harm those who work there. The law implements this directive by requiring employers to inform and train employees about potential hazards and by keeping records of workplace injuries. (Repa, pg 6.1)
Workplace dangers are caught and corrected during unannounced inspections by OSHA. Employees initiate complaints against workplace hazards and actions. However, even with these initiatives in place, still more reform is necessary. According to recent estimates, six million Americans suffer injuries at work each year, and 6,000 workers die because of their injuries (Repa, pg 6.2). In addition, 50,000 Americans die each year from illnesses caused by chemicals they were exposed to while on the job. (Repa, pg 6.2)
Every state has their own OSHA laws. The legal requirements for workplace health and safety in the state laws are the same as the federal laws. OSHA covers nearly all private employers engaged in interstate commerce. (Repa, pg 6.3) Every employer that uses the U.S. Postal Service to send mail to states or makes telephone calls to other states, independent contractor is not covered by the law. (Repa, pg 6.3)
OSHA requirements do not apply to state and local government. However, these employees have some protection if their state or local government has a safety plan. (Repa, pg 6.5) As an incentive to these employers, OSHA will fu ...