What is the primary goal of the OSHA General Duty Clause?

The primary goal of the OSHA General Duty Clause is to provide a safe work environment for employees. This clause mandates that employers must keep the workplace free from recognized hazards that could cause death or serious physical harm to employees. It emphasizes the responsibility of employers to ensure workplace safety and security, thus creating a foundational expectation of health and safety standards in occupational settings. The relevance of this clause lies in its broad application and its function as a legal requirement for employers to proactively address and mitigate risks in their working environments.

In contrast, promoting technological advancements, eliminating all forms of employment, and creating standardized safety equipment do not align with the intent of the General Duty Clause. While technological advancements can enhance safety, they are not the primary focus of the clause. Similarly, eliminating all forms of employment would contradict the purpose of OSHA, which is to ensure safe working conditions rather than reducing job opportunities. Lastly, while standardized safety equipment contributes to workplace safety, the General Duty Clause itself does not specifically address equipment standards, but instead focuses more broadly on the overall work environment.