What is the main goal of the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA)?

The main goal of the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) is to reduce workplace injuries and illnesses. This act was enacted in 1970 to ensure that employers provide a safe and healthy work environment for their employees. OSHA sets and enforces standards for safe working conditions, conducts inspections, and provides education and training on workplace safety.

By focusing on minimizing risks and hazards in various workplaces, OSHA aims to lower the incidence of accidents and health issues that can arise from unsafe working conditions. This objective is critical not only for protecting employees but also for promoting overall workforce well-being and productivity, which are vital for the success of any organization.

Other options relate to different aspects of employment law and workforce management but do not directly pertain to the primary focus of OSHA. For instance, providing employment opportunities for youth is unrelated to workplace safety regulations, even though it is an important social issue. Establishing employee training programs, while significant, could pertain to various areas and not solely focused on safety. Regulating overtime pay, on the other hand, addresses wage and hour laws, which fall under a different area of labor statutes. Thus, the core emphasis of OSHA remains on safeguarding health and safety in the workplace.