What Are OSHA Standards?
OSHA standards, also called “rules,” define the methods and practices employers must use to protect employees from workplace hazards. These rules are designed to safeguard workers across a wide variety of industries and conditions.
Industries Covered
OSHA develops standards for four primary industrial groups:
- General Industry – Includes manufacturing, healthcare, and the service sector.
- Construction – Standards related to building, demolition, and renovation.
- Maritime – Covers shipyards, longshoring, and marine terminals.
- Agriculture – Standards for farming, ranching, and related activities.
When no specific standard applies, employers must comply with the General Duty Clause of the OSH Act, which requires workplaces to be free from recognized hazards.
Types of Hazards Covered by OSHA Standards
OSHA standards address a broad range of workplace hazards, including:
- Toxic substances
- Electrical hazards
- Fall hazards
- Hazardous waste
- Machine hazards
- Infectious diseases
- Fire and explosion hazards
- Dangerous atmospheres
Where OSHA Standards Are Published
OSHA standards are codified in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR). Key parts include:
- Part 1910 – General Industry standards
- Part 1926 – Construction standards
- Parts 1915, 1917, 1918 – Maritime standards
- Part 1928 – Agricultural standards