The Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 (OSH Act) established the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). The landmark worker safety and health act was signed by then President Richard M. Nixon on December 29, 1970, and OSHA opened its doors on April 28, 1971.

As part of the U.S. Department of Labor, OSHA’s mission is to “ensure safe and healthful conditions for workers by setting and enforcing standards and by providing training, outreach, education, and assistance.”

Coupled with the efforts of employers, workers, safety and health professionals, unions, and advocates, OSHA and its state partners have dramatically improved workplace safety and reduced work-related fatalities. Nevertheless, far too many preventable injuries and fatalities continue to occur and significant hazards and unsafe conditions still exist in workplaces throughout the U.S.

Even with the dramatic improvements to workplace safety over the last five decades — and now with the nation responding to a global pandemic — OSHA's mission is as important as ever.

To learn more about the history of OSHA over the past 50 years, visit www.osha.gov/osha50

Credit to: OSHA