National Association of Boards of Long Term Care Administrator (NAB) CORE Practice Exam

What is the primary purpose of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970?

1. Define rights of employees and employers to encourage collective bargaining

2. Present recommendations regarding safe working conditions

3. Create policies for employee/employer health concerns

4. Provide a safe workplace free from recognized hazards

The correct answer is: Provide a safe workplace free from recognized hazards

The primary purpose of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 is to ensure that employers provide a workplace that is safe and free from recognized hazards that could cause harm to employees. This foundational legislation established the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), which is responsible for setting and enforcing safety standards in the workplace. By focusing on providing a safe working environment, the Act aims to minimize workplace injuries and illnesses, thereby protecting the health and welfare of workers across various industries. While other options touch on important aspects related to workplace rights, health, and safety, they don't encapsulate the central aim of the Act as effectively as the provision of a hazard-free workplace. The emphasis on recognized hazards directly aligns with the overarching intention of the legislation to promote safety standards that mitigate risks to employees.