Which act requires employers to provide a safe and healthful workplace?

The Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) is the act that specifically requires employers to provide a safe and healthful workplace for their employees. This law, enacted in 1970, aims to ensure that all workers are free from recognized hazards that could cause death or serious physical harm. OSHA sets forth regulations and guidelines that employers must follow to maintain safety standards and protect their workers' health.

The act empowers the Occupational Safety and Health Administration to enforce workplace safety standards and conduct inspections, helping to ensure compliance among employers. This proactive approach not only enhances employee safety but also fosters a culture of health and well-being in the workplace, which can lead to reduced accidents and illnesses.

Other acts mentioned, like the Fair Labor Standards Act, focus on wage regulations and hours of work; the Family and Medical Leave Act deals with employee leave rights; and the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act concerns layoffs and job retraining. While all these laws are important for various aspects of employment, none specifically target the safety and health standards in the workplace as OSHA does.