Other Laws and Agencies to Protect Workers

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

Many laws have been passed to protect the environment. The job of making these laws work usually rests with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. EPA also has laws that apply to the workplace including:

• The Resource, Conservation and Recovery Act of 1976 (RCRA) applies to hazardous waste treatment, storage, disposal and emergency response.
• The Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) covers chemical and pesticide use.
• EPA writes rules to carry out these laws. These rules are similar to OSHA standards. For example, under TSCA, EPA issued the Asbestos in Schools Rule that required schools to inspect their buildings for asbestos and protect workers.

For certain hazards, EPA has passed rules to protect public employees who are not covered by OSHA. EPA has passed rules similar to OSHA for:

• asbestos in buildings other than schools;
• PCBs; and
• Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response.
• State Motor Vehicle Safety Standards

Most states have adopted standards that are the same or similar to federal standards for commercial motor vehicles (CMVs). These standards cover equipment, inspections and operation of CMVs.

Local Building and Fire Codes

Buildings must meet local fire and safety regulations. These codes cover electrical wiring, sprinkler systems, restrooms, emergency evacuation and many other conditions.

State and Local Health Departments

Health departments act to control the spread of disease. They can useful in helping to prevent the spread of tuberculosis, hepatitis and other diseases. Health departments may be helpful in making employers control insects, vermin and other pests. Some health departments enforce regulations to prevent lead poisoning or exposure to asbestos.