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Employee safety is often a critical concern among employers, given that they spend much of their lives at work. Unfortunately, many fail to uphold this right. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) recorded over 2 million nonfatal injury and illness cases in 2021 alone.

The Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970: An Overview

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is responsible for enforcing workplace safety and health laws in the United States. Its flagship law, the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 (OSH Act), comprehensively protects workers from potential hazards to secure their rights to safe and healthful working environments.

The law had a transformative impact on workplaces and countless employees' lives nationwide. Here are some key reasons why the OSH Act is important:

• Worker safety: Before the OSH Act's passage, many employers did not prioritize workplace safety; in fact, rising injury rates in the 1960s prompted Congress to establish OSHA. The law compelled companies to provide a safe working environment via safety standards, inspections, and guidance.
• Worker rights: The OSH Act grants employees the right to learn about workplace hazards. It also allows them to request an OSHA inspection for any violation, enabling them to participate in their safety, advocate for necessary improvements, and collectively improve American workplaces.
• Accountability: As mentioned, OSHA holds employers accountable for maintaining safe working conditions via inspections, investigations, and penalties for non-compliance. It incentivizes companies to invest in safety measures and ensure their workforce's well-being.
• International influence: The OSH Act influenced other countries to develop their own occupational safety and health agencies and regulations. For instance, Australia has Safe Work Australia, while the Philippines has the Occupational Safety and Health Center.

Over the years, the OSH Act has played a crucial role in reducing workplace accidents. Historical data from the BLS shows that workplace injuries and accidents have been plummeting significantly since the law's establishment. This trend indicates its effectiveness in enforcing safer work environments and protecting employees in many aspects.

Learn More about OSHA's Workplace Safety Law

As the world evolves and encounters new workplaces and occupational challenges, OSHA has proven its adaptability in promoting employee safety and health. Its commitment to training, education, and outreach ensures employers and employees remain aware of the latest workplace safety developments. In turn, they can collectively create safer work environments in the U.S.

The infographic below covers key statistics about workplace accidents, incidents the OSH Act covers, and some tips to help employers comply with the law. Feel free to use it as a reference to improve your workplace safety as soon as possible.