What is the OSHA definition?
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is
a federal agency in the United States that is part of the Department of Labor.
OSHA's primary mission is to ensure safe and healthy working conditions for employees
by setting and enforcing standards and providing training, outreach, education,
and assistance to employers and workers.
While OSHA itself does not provide an overarching
definition, the agency defines and regulates specific aspects of occupational
health and safety. Some key elements and definitions established by OSHA
include:
- OSHA Standards: OSHA sets and enforces standards that define the minimum requirements for workplace safety and health. These standards cover a wide range of areas, such as general industry, construction, maritime, and agriculture.
- General Duty Clause: The General Duty Clause is a provision in the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 that requires employers to provide a workplace that is free from recognized hazards causing or likely to cause death or serious physical harm to employees. This clause serves as a catch-all for hazards that may not be specifically addressed in OSHA standards.
- OSHA Inspections: OSHA conducts inspections to assess workplace compliance with safety and health standards. Inspections may be routine, complaint-based, or triggered by incidents or accidents. Inspections involve examining the workplace, reviewing records, interviewing employees, and assessing hazards and compliance.
- Citations and Penalties: When OSHA identifies violations of safety and health standards, it may issue citations to employers. Citations specify the standards violated and may include proposed penalties or corrective actions to address the violations. Penalties can vary depending on the severity of the violation and the employer's compliance history.
- Recordkeeping and Reporting: OSHA requires employers to maintain records of workplace injuries, illnesses, and fatalities. Employers must report severe injuries, hospitalizations, and fatalities to OSHA within specified timeframes.
- Whistleblower Protection: OSHA provides protection to workers who raise concerns about workplace safety and health or report violations. Whistleblower protection safeguards workers from retaliation by employers for engaging in protected activities, such as filing complaints or participating in inspections.
These are some of the key aspects and definitions associated
with OSHA. It's important to note that OSHA's regulations and definitions may
evolve over time, and specific requirements may vary depending on the industry,
state, or region within the United States.
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