Minnesota OSHA State Plan Overview

Minnesota operates under an OSHA-approved State Plan that provides comprehensive coverage for all state, municipal, and private sector employees within the state. This plan is administered by the Minnesota Occupational Safety and Health Administration (MNOSHA), a division of the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry.

Scope of Coverage

MNOSHA covers:

• Public sector employees (state and local government workers)

• Private sector employees and employers, with limited exceptions where federal OSHA retains jurisdiction (e.g., maritime industries, federal facilities)

Standards and Enforcement

MNOSHA enforces a combination of:

• Federal OSHA standards, including those for general industry, construction, and agriculture

• Minnesota-specific rules, which may go beyond federal requirements to address unique workplace conditions within the state

MNOSHA is responsible for:

• Conducting workplace inspections

• Investigating complaints and accidents

• Enforcing compliance through citations and penalties

• Providing outreach, education, and training programs

Training Recommendations

While OSHA does not mandate completion of the OSHA 10-Hour or 30-Hour training, both Federal OSHA and MNOSHA recommend these programs to promote a culture of workplace safety:

• The OSHA 10-Hour course is suited for entry-level workers

• The OSHA 30-Hour course is designed for supervisors or those with safety responsibilities

These training programs cover critical safety topics, help prevent workplace injuries, and enhance compliance with applicable standards.