Creation of OSHA

The OSH Act exists to "assure safe and healthful working conditions for working men and women; by authorizing enforcement of the standards developed under the Act; by assisting and encouraging the States in their efforts to assure safe and healthful working conditions; by providing for research, information, education, and training in the field of occupational safety and health; and for other purposes."

With the passing of the OSH Act in 1970, Congress created the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, or OSHA. OSHA advocates for safe and healthy working conditions by setting (and enforcing) industry standards and by identifying the following areas for employers to focus on regarding employer and employee safety:

• Training
• Outreach
• Education

OSHA is a part of the U.S. Department of Labor. It has an administrator called the Assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational Safety and Health. This OSHA administrator works under the U.S. Secretary of Labor, who is a member of the cabinet of the President of the United States.

To learn more about HAZWOPER visit our HAZWOPER 40 Hour Online Training web page.