Governing Regulations
The Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 created the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). OSHA, an agency of the U.S. Department of Labor, is charged with the enforcement of safety and health conditions of workers through the use of regulations published in the Code of Federal Regulations. OSHA regulations are published in Title 29 of the Code of Federal Regulations. Part 1910 covers general industry regulations, while 1926 is designated for construction industry standards.
Employers must protect the safety and health of employees involved in oil and gas operations according to OSHA's General Industry Standards (29 CFR 1910), Construction Standards (29 CFR 1926), and the General Duty Clause of the Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Act. In addition to OSHA oil and gas extraction requirements, federal and state regulations also apply to different elements of operations.