Which organization regulates and enforces safety standards to protect employees at work?

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration, or OSHA, is the organization that regulates and enforces safety standards to protect employees in the workplace. OSHA was established under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 with the primary goal of ensuring safe and healthy working conditions for workers by setting and enforcing standards and providing training, outreach, education, and assistance.

OSHA's role is critical in the workplace as it involves inspections and compliance assessments to reduce workplace hazards and prevent workplace injuries and illnesses, fostering a safe work environment, which directly benefits employees.

In contrast, the other organizations listed have different focuses. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is concerned with environmental protection issues, including air and water quality. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) focuses primarily on public health and safety, particularly in disease prevention and control. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates food safety, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and cosmetics but does not specifically address workplace safety standards. Each organization plays an important role in public health and safety but serves different purposes outside the scope of employee workplace safety regulations.