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How does OSHA protect workers in the United States?

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Asbestosis — occupational disease The lung disease asbestosis is caused primarily by prolonged inhalation of asbestos fibers. It occurs mainly among workers whose occupations involve exposure to asbestos and people who live near mines, factories, and construction sites.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) protects workers in the United States by ensuring employers provide a work environment free from recognized health and safety hazards.12

OSHA fulfills this mandate through several key mechanisms:

Standard Setting: The agency develops and enforces specific safety and health standards, such as requirements for fall protection, the provision of safety equipment like respirators, and the prevention of exposure to harmful chemicals and infectious diseases.1
Compliance and Enforcement: OSHA conducts workplace inspections and investigations. It has the authority to issue citations and impose penalties on employers who fail to comply with established regulations.1
Worker Protections: To ensure accountability, OSHA maintains a whistle-blower program. This protects employees who report unsafe or unhealthful working conditions from retaliatory actions by their employers.1

By establishing these regulatory frameworks, OSHA plays a critical role in the prevention of occupational disease and the promotion of worker well-being across various industries.2