Which agency is primarily responsible for enforcing safety and health legislation?

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is the agency primarily responsible for enforcing safety and health legislation in the workplace. Established under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, OSHA's primary goal is to ensure that employers provide a safe working environment for their employees by setting and enforcing standards and by providing training, outreach, education, and assistance.

OSHA's role includes conducting inspections of workplaces to ensure compliance with safety regulations, addressing workplace hazards, and investigating serious accidents. This focus on occupational safety makes OSHA the key agency in enforcing health and safety rules specifically related to employment and labor standards.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is focused on protecting the environment and public health by regulating pollutants and enforcing environmental laws rather than directly overseeing workplace safety. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) conducts research and makes recommendations for the prevention of work-related injuries but does not enforce standards; that function is reserved for OSHA. Likewise, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates food safety and pharmaceuticals rather than workplace health and safety standards.