People may be knowingly or unknowingly encounter health risks in their place of work. Potential sources of occupational health risks include indoor air pollution in office buildings, and agricultural and industrial workers who face exposure to toxic chemicals, pesticides, excessive noise levels, mechanical dangers, heat or cold stress and unsanitary conditions. Under the Occupational and Safety Health Act, the EPA works in cooperation with other federal agencies to regulate health conditions in the workplace. The EPA requires regular health and safety reports from the owner or operator in workplaces where employees are placed in contact with hazardous substances. The EPA also publishes action plans for maintaining clean indoor air environments and certifies pesticide applicators and instructors.
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