Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSH Act) (1970)

1) Link to the Text of the Act
Read the statute (29 U.S.C. § 651 et seq.)

2) Why It Was Done
Enacted to ensure safe and healthful working conditions for employees by authorizing standards, enforcement, and education programs through the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

3) Pre-existing Law or Constitutional Rights
Before 1970, workplace safety laws were minimal and mostly state-based. Rising workplace injuries and fatalities pushed Congress to establish a uniform federal standard.