ABSTRACT
Improving occupational safety has been a significant policy goal in state-enacted workers’ compensation laws throughout this century. By 1965, Congress judged state regulation to be insufficient to protect workers and so created the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Despite efforts of employers and regulators, workplaces are inherently risky. OSHA and its state counterparts continue to seek reduction in workplace injuries and illnesses. The current safety regulations involve detailed descriptions of personal protective equipment, protective equipment for machines and facilities, and training requirements. Inspections target facilities with poor safety or compliance records. Fines are levied to punish the employer and to force actions to eliminate or at least reduce the hazard. Major incidents that involve death or severe injury garner headlines and an immediate investigation by OSHA, generally followed by fines and orders to remedy the situation. However, companies have exhibited little concern for the safety records of the companies from which they purchase goods and services.
