Which agency is responsible for creating and enforcing safety standards to ensure a safe work environment?

The agency responsible for creating and enforcing safety standards to ensure a safe work environment is the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). OSHA was established to ensure that employers provide a workplace free from serious hazards, thereby protecting the safety and health of workers.

OSHA develops regulations and enforces standards concerning workplace safety, including exposure to harmful substances, proper safety equipment, and safe working conditions. The agency also conducts inspections to ensure compliance with these safety standards, investigates workplace accidents, and provides training and outreach to educate employers and employees about their rights and responsibilities under the Occupational Safety and Health Act.

In contrast, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) focuses more on public health and disease prevention rather than workplace safety specifically. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates environmental issues and pollutants, while the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) conducts research and provides recommendations on workplace safety but does not enforce regulations. Thus, OSHA is the key agency for ensuring a safe work environment through the enforcement of safety standards.