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144 Introduction to OSHA
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Rights and Responsibilities

The OSH Act of 1970

OSHA was created to provide workers with the right to a safe and healthful workplace. Let's look at what the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 (OSH Act) says about employer and employee duties.

Workers need to know they have a right to a safe and healthful workplace
You have a right to a safe and healthful workplace.

OSH Act of 1970 Section 5(a) Duties - General Duty Clause

(a) Each employer—

  • (1) shall furnish to each of their employees employment and a place of employment which are free from recognized hazards that are causing or are likely to cause death or serious physical harm to their employees;
  • (2) shall comply with occupational safety and health standards promulgated under this Act.

(b) Each employee shall comply with occupational safety and health standards and all rules, regulations, and orders issued pursuant to this Act which are applicable to his own actions and conduct.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

2-1. According to the OSH Act, from what kind of hazards must the employer protect employees?