A comprehensive federal law regulating safety and health in the workplace, including ensuring that work environments are free of recognized health hazards (29 U.S.C. §§ 651 to 678). The OSH Act covers nearly all employers (see Practice Note, Health and Safety in the Workplace: Overview: Covered Employers). It is enforced by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

For more information on safety and health in the workplace, see Practice Notes, Health and Safety in the Workplace: Overview and Handling an OSHA Inspection.

In addition to the federal OSH Act, many states maintain their own job safety and health programs. These plans must be approved by OSHA and maintain the minimum standards of the federal OSH Act. OSHA also monitors these state plans. For more information about state occupational safety and health plans, see State Occupational Safety and Health Plan Laws Chart: Overview.