When OSHA was first established, re

When OSHA was first established, regulations were aimed to achieve the safest feasible standards. Let us consider how this "feasibility analysis" would operate in setting standards for exposure to workplace chemicals. The first step would involve a determination by scientists and medical experts of the toxicity of the specific chemical. Specifically, these experts would determine the exposure level at which impairment of some physical function occurs. OSHA then determines if it would be technologically and economically feasible, on an industrywide basic, to attain this level. Technologically feasible mean that the technology exists to meet the standards. Economically feasible mean that the standards could be met with out putting the entire industry out of business. If the answer is yes, then OSHA establishes the standard at this point . If the answer is no, OSHA then establishes the standard at lowest level at which it is technology and economically feasible. If an individual firm is unable to meet the standards that are attainable within the industry, the standard still applies. In effect, the standards become part of the costs of doing business and uncompetitive firms suffer in the market.