What is the primary agency responsible for workplace safety regulations?

The primary agency responsible for workplace safety regulations is OSHA, which stands for the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. Established within the United States Department of Labor, OSHA's main goal is to ensure safe and healthy working conditions by setting and enforcing standards and by providing training, outreach, education, and assistance.

OSHA develops regulations that cover a wide array of workplace hazards, including exposure to chemicals, safety standards for equipment, and procedures for handling emergencies. By doing so, it helps protect workers from injuries, illnesses, and fatalities that can result from unsafe work environments.

In contrast, other agencies mentioned in the choices have different primary focuses. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is mainly involved in biomedical research and public health. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) focuses on environmental protection and regulating pollutants and chemicals that might harm the environment. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is responsible for regulating food safety, pharmaceuticals, and medical devices, ensuring they are safe and effective for public use. Each of these agencies plays a critical role in their respective areas, but OSHA specifically addresses the safety and health regulations in the workplace.