Why OSHA Is Important
Before 1970, the United States had no national laws protecting workers from safety and health hazards. Each year, thousands of workers were killed or injured on the job. In 1970 alone, an estimated 14,000 workers died—roughly 38 each day—prompting public demand for federal workplace safety regulations.
Historical Events Leading to OSHA
- 1911 Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire: In New York City, 146 employees—mostly young immigrant women—died because doors were locked and there were no fire escapes. This disaster highlighted the urgent need for workplace safety laws.
- World War I Era: Rapid industrial production led to unsafe working conditions. The government created the Working Conditions Service to help states inspect plants and reduce hazards.
- 1930s New Deal: Additional laws expanded the federal government’s role in workplace safety, mostly providing guidance and support to state programs.
- Late 1950s: The Federal-State partnership struggled to manage a growing workforce and increasing hazards. New federal laws began addressing safety, though coverage was limited to certain industries.
OSHA Today
- In 2015, 4,836 workers were killed on the job, averaging more than 13 deaths per day.
- Workplace injuries and illnesses have significantly decreased—from 10.9 incidents per 100 workers in 1972 to 3.0 per 100 in 2015.
- Worker deaths have also declined—from 38 per day in 1970 to 13 per day in 2015—showing the effectiveness of OSHA’s regulations in improving workplace safety.