The seven OSHA standards every workplace needs.

Employers must maintain a written hazard communication program, safety data sheets for all chemicals on-site, and provide training on chemical hazards. HAZCOM ranked #2 on OSHA's FY 2024 most-cited list and applies to virtually every workplace - cleaning supplies, copier toner, and maintenance chemicals all qualify.

Employers must conduct hazard assessments, provide appropriate PPE, and train employees on proper use, maintenance, and limitations. Updated in January 2025 to require proper fit.

Floors, aisles, stairways, and walkways must be kept clean, dry, and free of hazards. Slips, trips, and falls are the leading cause of general industry workplace injuries and consistently rank in OSHA's top 10 most-cited standards.

Employers must provide portable fire extinguishers, maintain them, and train employees on their use annually. Training must include the hazards of incipient stage firefighting.

Workers exposed to electrical hazards must be trained on safe work practices, approach distances, and PPE requirements. Even non-electricians need awareness training on shock and burn hazards in office, retail, and field environments.

Employers with 11 or more employees must have a written emergency action plan covering evacuation, fire response, and emergency reporting. All employees must be trained when the plan is developed and when their responsibilities change.

OSHA does not have a specific ergonomics standard, but the General Duty Clause requires employers to address known ergonomic hazards. Musculoskeletal disorders account for a significant share of workplace injury claims across desk-based and field-based work.