Which government agency is responsible for setting safety standards for construction sites?

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is the agency responsible for setting and enforcing safety standards on construction sites. Established under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, OSHA's mission is to ensure safe and healthy working conditions by setting and enforcing standards, providing training, outreach, education, and assistance.

In the context of construction, OSHA develops regulations that address hazards specific to the industry, such as fall protection, scaffolding safety, and machinery operation. These standards are designed to protect workers from a wide range of potential risks associated with construction activities.

The other agencies mentioned have different scopes and responsibilities. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) focuses on environmental protection and regulation, such as pollution control and waste management, rather than direct safety standards for construction. The Department of Transportation (DOT) primarily deals with transportation systems and infrastructure rather than workplace safety. Finally, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is involved in disaster response and recovery, rather than establishing safety standards for ongoing construction operations.