Which agency requires employers to provide safeguards regarding infectious hazards?

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is the agency that specifically mandates employers to implement safeguards to protect workers from occupational hazards, including infectious hazards. OSHA's regulations, particularly the Bloodborne Pathogens Standard, require healthcare employers to develop and enforce safety protocols to minimize the risk of exposure to diseases that can be transmitted through blood or other potentially infectious materials. This includes requirements for training, personal protective equipment, and plans for handling biological waste, which collectively help to ensure that employees are protected in environments where they may be exposed to infectious agents.

In contrast, the other agencies mentioned serve different roles. The American Medical Association focuses on advancing the interests of physicians and patients, but does not have regulatory authority over workplace safety. The Joint Commission primarily evaluates and accredits healthcare organizations based on standards of care rather than specific occupational safety regulations. The Department of Health and Human Services oversees public health, but does not specifically enforce workplace safety standards in the manner that OSHA does.