Which federal agency sets and enforces safety health standards in the workplace?

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration, commonly known as OSHA, is the federal agency responsible for setting and enforcing workplace safety and health standards. Established by the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, OSHA's primary mission is to ensure safe and healthy working conditions by promoting and enforcing standards that protect workers from hazards on the job.

OSHA develops regulations that address various risks, including exposure to toxic substances, machinery safety, and fall protection. The agency conducts inspections and can impose penalties for non-compliance, thereby acting as a key component in fostering safe work environments across various industries.

In contrast, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) primarily focuses on public health and disease prevention rather than workplace-specific health and safety regulations. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) deals with environmental protection issues, including air and water quality, but does not directly regulate workplace safety. The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR) is dedicated to dental research and does not have the authority over workplace health and safety standards. Therefore, OSHA stands out as the correct agency for this question.