State Plans (OSHA-approved)

State Plans are occupational safety and health programs that individual U.S. states can develop and implement, which must be at least as effective as federal OSHA standards. These plans allow states to tailor regulations to their specific industries and needs, addressing local safety concerns. Each state submits its plan to OSHA for approval, ensuring they meet certain criteria. While OSHA oversees federal regulations, State Plans enable states to take a proactive role in protecting workers' health and safety, often leading to enhanced compliance and responsiveness to local conditions.