What is the primary purpose of OSHA?

The primary purpose of OSHA, which stands for the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, is to ensure safe and healthful working conditions for employees across various industries. This is achieved through the development and enforcement of workplace safety and health standards, conducting inspections, and providing training, outreach, education, and assistance to employers and employees. OSHA aims to minimize workplace hazards and protect workers from dangerous conditions that could lead to injury or illness.

While enforcing labor laws, regulating employee wages, and promoting worker training programs are important aspects of labor relations and workplace management, they fall outside the specific mandate of OSHA. The agency’s distinct focus is on workplace safety and health, making it integral to fostering an environment where workers can perform their duties without unnecessary risk to their health and safety.