7 - Overview of How OSHA Works

Abstract

This chapter discusses how Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) works in relation to the process of inspections. OSHA provides consultation assistance at no cost to employers who request help in establishing and maintaining a safe workplace. OSHA's voluntary protection programs (VPPs) recognize outstanding achievements by companies that successfully integrate a comprehensive safety and health program into their total management system. OSHA is responsible for promulgating legally enforceable standards that may require conditions or the adoption or use of one or more practices, means, methods, or processes that are reasonably necessary and appropriate to protect employees on the job. OSHA can begin standards-setting procedures on its own initiative or in response to petitions from other parties, including the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), state and local governments, any nationally recognized standards producing organization, employers or labor representatives. OSHA continually reviews its standards to keep pace with the developing and changing industrial technology.