What does the Occupational Safety and Health Act require from all states?

The Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) sets forth requirements aimed at ensuring safe and healthful working conditions for employees. One critical requirement is that states must develop and maintain their own occupational safety and health programs that are at least as effective as OSHA’s federal program. This means that states must establish regulations and enforcement mechanisms that comply with or exceed federal standards, providing a robust framework for workplace safety and health.

Having a health and safety plan that meets or exceeds OSHA’s requirements ensures that states are proactive in addressing workplace hazards and protecting employees. This includes not only creating policies but also implementing practices that align with OSHA’s standards, allowing for flexibility in how states choose to achieve compliance while still upholding a high level of safety.

In contrast, while safety equipment inventories, regular employee safety training, and a designated safety officer can be important components of a comprehensive safety strategy, they are not mandated requirements under the Occupational Safety and Health Act for states. Instead, the act focuses on the overarching principle of fostering effective safety and health programs that comply with federal standards.