Texas Pesticide Applicator Practice Exam

Which agency administers the Hazard Communication Standard?

1. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

2. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)

3. Federal Trade Commission (FTC)

4. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)

The correct answer is: Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)

The correct answer is the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) because this agency is responsible for ensuring safe and healthy working conditions. The Hazard Communication Standard (HCS), which is part of OSHA's regulations, mandates that employers inform their employees about the hazards associated with chemicals in the workplace. This includes requirements for labeling hazardous chemicals, maintaining Safety Data Sheets (SDS), and training workers on how to use and handle these substances safely. Other options, while important in their respective areas, do not administer the Hazard Communication Standard. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) focuses on regulating chemicals and pollutants to protect the environment. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) deals primarily with consumer protection and antitrust laws, and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) conducts research and provides recommendations for the prevention of work-related injuries and illnesses, but does not have regulatory authority like OSHA. Understanding the specific roles of these agencies helps clarify why OSHA is the relevant choice in this context.