Free OSHA Legal & Regulatory Authority Guide 2025
Complete Guide to OSHA Compliance Requirements
Understanding the legal framework behind workplace safety is essential for compliance. This comprehensive resource covers federal OSHA regulations, state-specific programs, industry standards, and enforcement mechanisms.
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Federal OSHA Regulations & Requirements
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) establishes and enforces workplace safety standards under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970. The following regulations directly govern emergency action plans and evacuation procedures:
Emergency Action Plans
Requires written emergency action plans with evacuation procedures, alarm systems, and designated assembly areas for all covered employers.
Fire Prevention Plans
Mandates fire prevention plans detailing fire hazards, fire extinguisher locations, and employee training requirements.
Design and Construction of Exit Routes
Specifies requirements for exit route design including width, height, capacity, and illumination standards.
Maintenance, Safeguards, and Operational Features
Covers exit route maintenance, emergency lighting, alarm systems, and signage requirements.
Coverage and Definitions
Defines key terms and establishes scope of exit route requirements for general industry.
Compliance with NFPA 101
Allows alternative compliance through NFPA Life Safety Code for certain exit route requirements.
NFPA Standards for Workplace Safety
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) develops codes and standards that are widely adopted by federal, state, and local jurisdictions. These standards complement OSHA regulations:
Life Safety Code
Comprehensive standard addressing egress requirements, fire protection features, and occupancy-specific requirements.
Fire Code
Establishes fire safety requirements for new and existing buildings, processes, and storage.
Portable Fire Extinguishers
Covers selection, installation, inspection, maintenance, and testing of portable fire extinguishers.
National Fire Alarm Code
Requirements for fire alarm systems, notification appliances, and emergency communications systems.
Sprinkler Systems
Standard for installation of sprinkler systems in residential and commercial buildings.
State OSHA Programs & Requirements
Some states operate their own occupational safety and health programs that have been approved by federal OSHA. These State Plans must be at least as effective as the federal program and may include stricter standards.
| State | Program Name | OSHA Region | Program Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alaska | Region 10 | State Plan | |
| Arizona | Region 9 | State Plan | |
| California | Region 9 | State Plan | |
| Connecticut | Region 1 | State Plan | |
| Hawaii | Region 9 | State Plan | |
| Illinois | Region 5 | State Plan | |
| Indiana | Region 5 | State Plan | |
| Iowa | Region 7 | State Plan | |
| Kentucky | Region 4 | State Plan | |
| Maryland | Region 3 | State Plan | |
| Michigan | Region 5 | State Plan | |
| Minnesota | Region 5 | State Plan | |
| Nevada | Region 9 | State Plan | |
| New Jersey | Region 2 | State Plan | |
| New Mexico | Region 6 | State Plan | |
| New York | Region 2 | State Plan | |
| North Carolina | Region 4 | State Plan | |
| Oregon | Region 10 | State Plan | |
| South Carolina | Region 4 | State Plan | |
| Tennessee | Region 4 | State Plan | |
| Utah | Region 8 | State Plan | |
| Vermont | Region 1 | State Plan | |
| Virginia | Region 3 | State Plan | |
| Washington | Region 10 | State Plan | |
| Wyoming | Region 8 | State Plan |
Federal OSHA Coverage States
Industry-Specific OSHA Standards Guide
Different industries face unique hazards and have specific OSHA standards that apply to their operations. Select your industry to see applicable regulations:
Healthcare
- 29 CFR 1910.38
- 29 CFR 1910.1030
Manufacturing
- 29 CFR 1910.38
- 29 CFR 1910.157
- 29 CFR 1910.119
Retail
- 29 CFR 1910.38
- 29 CFR 1910.37
Hospitality
- 29 CFR 1910.38
- 29 CFR 1910.36
Education
- 29 CFR 1910.38
- 29 CFR 1910.157
Construction
- 29 CFR 1926.35
- 29 CFR 1926.150
Technology
- 29 CFR 1910.38
- 29 CFR 1910.157
Warehousing & Logistics
- 29 CFR 1910.38
- 29 CFR 1910.176
- 29 CFR 1910.178
Food Processing
- 29 CFR 1910.38
- 29 CFR 1910.119
- 29 CFR 1910.147
Pharmaceutical
- 29 CFR 1910.38
- 29 CFR 1910.119
- 29 CFR 1910.1450
Oil & Gas
- 29 CFR 1910.119
- 29 CFR 1910.38
- API Standards
Automotive
- 29 CFR 1910.38
- 29 CFR 1910.147
- 29 CFR 1910.132
OSHA Penalty Structure 2025
OSHA penalties are adjusted annually for inflation. Understanding the penalty structure helps organizations prioritize compliance investments:
Serious Violations
Per violation where there is substantial probability of death or serious physical harm
Willful Violations
Per violation with intentional disregard for OSHA requirements
Repeat Violations
Per violation for substantially similar violations within 5 years
Failure to Abate
Per day beyond abatement date for unresolved violations
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