OSHA #511 Occupational Safety and Health Standards for General Industry course

What is one of the key responsibilities established by the OSH Act for employers?

1. To provide unlimited sick leave for employees

2. To encourage development of safety programs

3. To minimize employee training costs

4. To conduct employee satisfaction surveys annually

The correct answer is: To encourage development of safety programs

One of the key responsibilities established by the Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Act for employers is to encourage the development of safety programs. This responsibility underscores the requirement for employers to proactively identify workplace hazards and implement strategies to mitigate those risks. Safety programs are essential for creating a workplace culture that prioritizes health and safety, ensuring that appropriate measures are in place for accident prevention and risk reduction. Furthermore, the OSH Act emphasizes the importance of communication and continuous improvement in safety practices. By actively supporting safety program development, employers demonstrate a commitment to their employees' well-being, which can lead to a reduction in workplace injuries and illnesses. Such programs often include training, safety audits, and employee engagement initiatives, which all contribute to maintaining a safe work environment. In contrast, the other options, while they may relate to workplace practices, do not align directly with the mandates of the OSH Act. The act does not require employers to provide unlimited sick leave or to minimize employee training costs, as well as not mandating the annual conduct of employee satisfaction surveys. These aspects may benefit employee welfare and company culture, but they are not fundamental responsibilities outlined by the OSH Act regarding workplace safety and health.