Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Business Law Practice Exam

Which agency is responsible for regulating health and safety standards in the United States?

1. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

2. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC)

3. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)

4. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

The correct answer is: Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is the agency responsible for ensuring safe and healthful working conditions for workers in the United States. Established under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, OSHA's primary mission is to prevent workplace injuries, illnesses, and fatalities. It accomplishes this through setting and enforcing standards, as well as providing training, outreach, education, and assistance to employers and employees. OSHA's focus is specifically on the worker's environment and safety, making it crucial for enforcing regulations related to workplace hazards, ensuring that employers adhere to health and safety standards, and conducting inspections to assess compliance. The other agencies mentioned have different areas of focus: the FBI is primarily involved in enforcing federal laws related to crime, the NRC regulates nuclear energy and related safety, while the EPA focuses on environmental protection, including air and water quality. Each of these agencies plays vital roles in their respective domains, but OSHA specifically addresses workplace health and safety regulations.