Final answer:
OSHA became federal law on December 29, 1970, and began operations on April 28, 1971. It aims to assure safe and healthful working conditions by enforcing standards and providing various safety-related services. Despite facing legislative challenges, it continues to play a vital role in worker protection.
Step-by-step explanation:
History and Impact of OSHA
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration, commonly known as OSHA, became a federal law on December 29, 1970, when President Richard M. Nixon signed the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSH Act) into law. The OSH Act's primary mission is to "assure safe and healthful working conditions for working men and women by setting and enforcing standards and by providing training, outreach, education, and assistance". OSHA officially formed on April 28, 1971, which is the date the OSH Act became effective with George Guenther as its first director. The agency has since played a critical role in enforcing standards to protect workers from hazards in the workplace.
Over time, OSHA has issued various standards, like the ergonomics standard in 2000, although some, such as this one, were later repealed through legislative action. Despite such challenges, OSHA's responsibilities have remained centered on regulatory enforcement, safety training, and health protection in the labor sector. Compliance Safety and Health Officers are the officials responsible for carrying out workplace inspections and issuing fines for non-compliance with OSHA regulations, ensuring the well-being of workers in numerous industries.
Since its inception, OSHA has been empowered to adopt regulations from standards organizations and to promulgate new regulations to prevent workplace hazards, though these often involve a comprehensive process including public engagement, notice, and comment before they can be established as standards. The continuous development and enforcement of OSHA regulations reflect ongoing efforts to provide a safe working environment for all employees across the United States.