What does the "General Duty Clause" require from employers regarding workplace hazards?

The "General Duty Clause," part of the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSH Act), requires employers to provide a workplace that is free from recognized hazards that are likely to cause death or serious physical harm. This clause emphasizes not just addressing immediate hazards but also taking proactive steps to identify and mitigate risks that could affect employee safety. By focusing on furnishing a hazard-free workplace, employers are encouraged to maintain an environment that prioritizes the health and safety of all employees.

While options such as eliminating all hazards, providing safety equipment, and ensuring employee training are important components of workplace safety, they do not fully capture the broader responsibility outlined by the General Duty Clause. Employers must actively work to ensure that their workplace is free from any recognized hazards, which encompasses a variety of safety measures and employee practices.