What event had an enormous effect on U.S. workplace safety?

The event that had an enormous effect on U.S. workplace safety was the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire, which occurred on March 25, 1911, in New York City. This tragic incident resulted in the deaths of 146 garment workers, most of whom were young immigrant women. The fire exposed the appalling working conditions, including overcrowded and unsanitary environments, excessive working hours, and inadequate safety measures, such as locked exits that trapped workers inside.

In the aftermath of the disaster, public outrage surged, prompting calls for reform in labor laws and workplace safety regulations. The fire led to significant changes, including the establishment of stricter building codes and regulations governing fire safety in workplaces. It also galvanized the labor movement, leading to the formation of organizations that advocated for workers' rights and better safety standards.

As a consequence, the event ultimately contributed to the creation of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) in 1970, which was designed to ensure safe and healthy working conditions for employees across the United States. The Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire remains a pivotal moment in the history of labor rights and workplace safety in the U.S.