On December 29, 1970, President Nixon signed the Occupational Safety and Health Act, which was enacted on April 28, 1971.
In its first half century, OSHA has helped transform America's workplaces in ways that have significantly reduced workplace fatalities, injuries, and illnesses. Established by the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, OSHA opened its doors on April 28, 1971. During its initial decade, OSHA issued the first standards for asbestos, lead, carcinogens, and cotton dust. The OSHA Training Institute, safety and health training grants, the On-Site Consultation Program, State Plans, and whistleblower protections for workplace safety were also established.