What does the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) do?

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is tasked with ensuring safe and healthy working conditions for employees by setting and enforcing standards and providing training, outreach, education, and assistance. OSHA's primary role is to oversee workplace health and safety regulations, which includes monitoring compliance with the safety standards it establishes to protect workers from hazards in the workplace.

The agency conducts inspections, investigates complaints, and enforces safety guidelines to reduce work-related injuries, illnesses, and fatalities. This focus on workplace safety encompasses a wide range of issues, such as chemical exposure, machinery safety, and workplace ergonomics, making its role crucial for maintaining a safe work environment.

The other options do not align with the mission or functions of OSHA; for example, setting minimum wage standards is typically within the purview of the Department of Labor rather than OSHA, and OSHA does not provide health insurance or regulate hiring practices. Its specific concentration on occupational safety distinguishes it from other agencies and regulatory bodies.