What does OSHA require from employers regarding workplace hazards?

Employers are mandated by OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) to ensure that workplaces are free from recognized hazards that could cause harm to employees. This requirement is fundamental to the mission of OSHA, which is to ensure safe and healthful working conditions. It encompasses a broad responsibility for employers to identify, assess, and mitigate potential risks before they can lead to accidents or injuries.

Recognized hazards are those that are known to cause harm and have been identified through industry standards, research, or past incidents. This proactive obligation goes beyond simply addressing visible hazards; it obliges employers to conduct regular safety assessments and implement necessary safety measures, training, and procedures to maintain a safe working environment.

The other options do not fully encompass the responsibilities outlined by OSHA. Minimizing only visible hazards fails to consider hidden or less obvious dangers that can also pose risks. While engaging in safety training is important, it is a part of a broader strategy rather than a standalone requirement. Allowing self-reporting of safety issues is a useful practice, but it does not replace the employer's primary obligation to ensure a hazard-free workplace actively.