Final answer:
President Richard M. Nixon signed the OSH Act into law on December 29, 1970. This significant act established OSHA, which became effective on April 28, 1971, and is tasked with ensuring safe work conditions.
Step-by-step explanation:
President Richard M. Nixon signed the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSH Act) into law on December 29, 1970. The enactment of this law led to the establishment of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) within the United States Department of Labor. OSHA officially formed on April 28, 1971, when the OSH Act became effective, with George Guenther serving as the agency's first director. OSHA's mission is critical to ensuring safe and healthful working conditions for men and women across America by enforcing standards, as well as providing necessary training, outreach, education, and assistance.
This legislation was part of a broader anticipation to the public demand for enhanced environmental and work safety regulations, following the successful Earth Day in 1970. It symbolizes a significant federal initiative to aggressively manage workplace hazards and protect workers' rights in the United States.