Associate Safety Professional Practice Exam

What is the primary responsibility of an employer under the General Duty Clause of OSHA?

1. To provide personal protective equipment (PPE)

2. To minimize employee training

3. To ensure a safe and healthful workplace

4. To maintain equipment properly

The correct answer is: To ensure a safe and healthful workplace

The primary responsibility of an employer under the General Duty Clause of OSHA is to ensure a safe and healthful workplace. This clause, found in the Occupational Safety and Health Act, mandates that employers provide conditions that are free from recognized hazards that could cause death or serious physical harm to employees. It establishes the overarching requirement that employers must actively take steps to identify potential hazards and implement measures to mitigate those risks, promoting overall workplace safety and health. While providing personal protective equipment, minimizing employee training, and maintaining equipment are important components of workplace safety, they are more specific actions or policies that support the broader responsibility of creating a safe environment. The General Duty Clause encompasses a wider range of safety obligations, urging employers to approach safety holistically rather than focusing narrowly on individual components. Therefore, ensuring a safe and healthful workplace encapsulates the essence of the employer’s responsibilities under OSHA.