Which government agency is responsible for regulating workplace safety?

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is the government agency primarily responsible for regulating workplace safety. OSHA's main purpose is to ensure that employers follow safety and health regulations to protect employees from hazards in the workplace. The agency sets and enforces standards, provides training, and offers resources to help both employers and employees create safe working environments.

OSHA plays a significant role in monitoring compliance with workplace safety regulations, conducting inspections, and responding to safety complaints. This makes it the central authority for issues related to occupational safety, distinct from other agencies that have different focuses.

In contrast, the National Safety Council (NSC) is a nonprofit organization, not a government agency, and it focuses on promoting safety in various areas, including workplaces, but it does not have regulatory authority. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is concerned with environmental protection and regulations related to air and water quality, rather than direct workplace safety. The Department of Labor (DOL) oversees a broad range of labor issues—including employment standards and wage laws—but OSHA is specifically designated for workplace safety regulations within this department.