The history of Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) is one full of disputes, turmoil, and (finally) triumph. This is one government organization that had a very shaky start.

The OSHA was originally erected by Congress under the Occupational Safety and Health Act, which was put into play by former President Richard Nixon. The act was instilled on December 29, 1970 in order to try and stop illness, death, and work-related injuries. Essentially, the OSHA set forth a number of law, rules, and regulations that all occupational health professionals had to adhere to. The history of occupational health and safety was a messy one before the OSHA was created.

Prior to the formation of the OSHA, many businesses did not have any type of safety regulation set in place to protect workers. In fact, many workers found themselves at the mercy of machines that were in no way safe. Once the OSHA began controlling the workplace environment, businesses were forced to change the level of safety within certain facilities. Of course, this instigated many different protests from companies that did not want to spend the time and money to update machinery. However, the OSHA prevailed, and many workplaces are safe today as a result.

Interestingly, the history of occupational health and safety took a curious turn when George H.W. Bush took over the presidency. During this time, a lot of the control that the OSHA had was weakened. However, it must be said, during his administration, the OSHA did implement certain hazardous exposure rules within the workplace (the right of workers to know about hazardous materials). Once the current president was put into power, he made a lot of OSHA’s rules voluntary (at the discretion of the management).

The many things that happened from the time that the OSHA was first originated (1970) to the current status of the OSHA (2008) are worth looking into. Although this organization was first created in order to protect workers within a dangerous work space, many of the rules originally put into place are no longer in existence. Still, the OSHA is an important part of today’s workplace.

As you can tell, the history of occupational health and safety really took a turn for the better once the OSHA was created. However, recent developments involving this government organization are quite curious. Regardless, thanks to this organization, many are able to work in a safer environment today.

Aazdak Alisimo writes about OSHA information for OccupationalHealthTherapists.com where you can find a directory of occupational therapists across the country.