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

The purpose of the Occupational Health and Safety Act is primarily to prevent workplace injuries and illnesses. This legislation outlines the rights and responsibilities of employers, employees, and other stakeholders to ensure a safe working environment. It mandates that employers take necessary precautions to mitigate risks associated with workplace hazards, thereby promoting the health and safety of all workers. The act serves as a framework for enforcement, outlining procedures for reporting hazards, conducting inspections, and implementing safety standards.

While increasing employee wages and improving benefits are critical aspects of worker welfare, they do not fall under the primary focus of the Occupational Health and Safety Act. Similarly, although enhancing job performance evaluations can have an indirect effect on safety by ensuring employees comply with safety protocols, it is not the foundational goal of this legislation. The core aim remains firmly centered on safeguarding the physical and mental well-being of employees within their work environments.