OSHA & ANSI - 101

Who is OSHA? What is ANSI? These may be easy questions for some to answer, but for others they may be a source of confusion or unknowing. To help those who may not be clear on the difference I am going to answer some frequently asked questions. This is OSHA & ANSI 101.

Who is OSHA?

OSHA is the Occupational Safety and Health Administration

Why was OSHA created?

OSHA was created as a result of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 (OSH Act of 1970). The act was passed “To assure safe and healthful working conditions for working men and women; by authorizing enforcement of the standards developed under the Act…” as stated in Section 1 – Introduction of the Act.

What does OSHA do?

OSHA was established to set and enforce standards in workplace safety and health by providing information, training and assistance to workers and employers.

What are OSHA standards based on?

Because OSHA is a research-driven organization OSHA Standards are based on recommendations from its research arm the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH).

What does ANSI stand for?

ANSI stands for the American National Standards Institute

What is the role of ANSI?

ANSI is a private, not-for-profit organization that promotes and facilitates voluntary standards through consensus.

Who’s standards should I follow, OSHA or ANSI?

The specific requirements that have been set forth by OSHA must be followed. However, in the absence of OSHA requirements, ANSI standards should be followed. It is important to note that any applicable federal, state or municipal regulations must also be followed.

So there you have it, answers to some common questions about OSHA and ANSI. Hope you have found this information helpful and that there is a little less confusion about the two organizations and what they represent.