Which term describes a governmental agency enforcing workplace safety?

• A. Occupational Safety and Health Administration
• B. Food and Drug Administration
• C. Environmental Protection Agency
• D. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health

Answer: (A)

Workplace safety is guided by a government agency that writes standards to protect workers and checks that those standards are followed. The agency that does this is the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. OSHA creates rules for safe working conditions, requires safety training and programs, and has the authority to inspect workplaces and issue penalties for violations. It operates under the U.S. Department of Labor and helps cover most private-sector workplaces.

The other agencies focus on different areas: the Food and Drug Administration regulates foods, drugs, cosmetics, and medical devices for consumer safety rather than workplace safety enforcement; the Environmental Protection Agency handles environmental protection and pollution control; and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health conducts research and provides guidance on hazards but does not enforce safety standards.