What organization is responsible for setting workplace health and safety standards in the U.S.?

The organization responsible for setting workplace health and safety standards in the U.S. is the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Established in 1970 under the Occupational Safety and Health Act, OSHA's primary mission is to ensure that employers provide a safe and healthy work environment for their employees. This includes developing and enforcing standards, providing training and education, and offering assistance to employers to help them comply with safety regulations.

OSHA has the authority to inspect workplaces, investigate complaints, and impose penalties for violations of safety standards. Its regulations cover a wide range of hazards found in various industries, protecting workers from risks such as exposure to toxic substances, ergonomic hazards, and the dangers of machinery.

In contrast, some other organizations mentioned have different roles. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) primarily deals with environmental issues, while the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) focuses on research and recommendations for preventing workplace injuries and diseases rather than enforcement. The term "Occupational Health and Safety Administration" is often mistakenly used but does not exist as a formal entity, reinforcing the necessity to accurately recognize OSHA's critical role.