OSHA at 50: Highlights of the First Five Decades

Filed in Safety and Health • By: Loren Sweatt • December 29, 2020

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is turning 50! On Dec. 29, 1970, the Occupational Safety and Health Act was signed to ensure safe and healthful working conditions for America’s workers. Since our agency’s launch, worker fatalities have decreased by about 60%, while work-related injuries and illnesses have decreased by nearly 80%. Although we have helped significantly reduce workplace fatalities, injuries and illnesses, there’s still more work to be done.

As we celebrate five decades of service to America’s workers, we’re reflecting on some of OSHA’s key milestones and standards.

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