EPA's intervention into workplace health and safety--the other OSHA

Primarily but not exclusively through the Toxic Substance Control Act (TSCA) and the Superfund Amendment Reauthorization Act Title III, EPA's involvement is significant because they are now a "key player" in providing regulatory direction to those responsible for workplace health and safety. A comparative matrix is presented as a database demonstration of the similarities and differences between OSHA and EPA in the standards setting, compliance, and public policy areas. This matrix demonstrates the impact that EPA now has on specific aspects of workplace health and safety and on the conduct of United States business activity. EPA's restrictive powers are clearly greater than those of OSHA. Conclusions derived from specific interventions of the EPA into workplace health and safety are (1) the industrial hygienist has no choice but to get involved in the compliance and regulatory process evolving from EPA. (2) Industrial hygiene professional societies must likewise become equally aware and involved. (3) There is a strong need for coordination and cooperation between OSHA and EPA leading to effective regulations and avoidance of redundancy. (4) National and global impacts must be optimized to enhance worker health and safety and not be barriers to technical and economic advances. (5) Private sector risk management functions must be integrated to avoid redundancies and omissions. (6) Finally, compliance initiatives can be leveraged to build strong relations with the public and employees.