The OSH Act sets the standards for employers to protect employees from health hazards and harmful materials. The General Duty Clause (GDC) requires employers to provide a safe workplace free from recognized hazards. You can find more information about the duties of employers and employees in 29 USC 654, which includes the GDC under Pub. L. 91–596 "OSH Act of 1970" 5(a)(1).
In addition to the GDC, occupational health and environmental control requirements are dependent upon the type of work and associated hazards. These requirements are scattered throughout 1910 Subpart G for general industry and 1926 Subpart D for construction and include mandates for:
- Combustible dusts;
- Gases, vapors, fumes, dusts, aerosols, mists;
- Illumination (lighting);
- Ionizing and non-ionizing radiation;
- Lead, asbestos, cadmium, and formaldehyde;
- Bloodborne pathogens;
- Occupational noise exposure; and
- Ventilation
