7 Manufacturing Regulations Shaping Modern Industry
Manufacturing is the engine driving economies forward. Since the earliest days of the original industrial revolution, manufacturing has been on an evolving track — one demanding regulations to keep up with the changes stemming from innovation. It’s why we have a strong framework of government regulations at the heart of the manufacturing industry. They set the standard for everything from safety and security to fairness and fair play.
Industry is a landscape of laws
For as long as manufacturing has existed, it has been subject to strict laws and regulations. Not only do these measures keep producers conscious of the risks and hazards in their day-to-day operations, but they also promote a level of uniformity across the industry.
Today, a solid foundation of regulations defines the way companies think about their manufacturing processes. Here’s a glimpse at some of the most important:
- Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA): Enacted by Congress in 1970, OSHA is focused on protecting workers from workplace hazards. Manufacturing companies are required to provide a workplace free from recognized hazards with the potential to cause injury or death.
- Consumer Product Safety Act (CPSA): Governing the manufacturing of products used by consumers, this act ensures manufacturers take responsibility for the safety of their products and perform tests to prevent harm to consumers.
- Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA): This act outlines the working conditions and wages for employees, whether full or part time. It requires manufacturers to provide equal pay and fair working conditions to all employees, protecting them from exploitation.
- The Clean Air and Clean Water Acts: Aimed at reducing air and water pollution, the Clean Air and Water Acts regulate pollutants and emissions produced by manufacturers. Today, these regulations are increasingly important and are likely to see further legislation related to them.
- Intellectual property laws: These laws protect the creativity and innovation of individuals and companies. Manufacturers can face legal action if they use the intellectual property of others without permission and can take solace in their IP being similarly protected from theft.
- Antitrust laws: Intended to prevent monopolies, these laws promote fair competition among manufacturers, who thus are incentivized to produce the best possible product.
- International trade laws: These regulations govern the export and import of goods to guarantee they meet certain standards. They protect both manufacturers and consumers from unacceptable practices and help raise the bar for quality.
The manufacturing landscape is evolving
In today’s age of rapid technological advancements, the manufacturing landscape is changing faster than ever. New regulations will undoubtedly follow — namely, those aimed at digital elements of the industry. Whatever form they take, they must strike a balance between protecting workers and consumers while not capping the industry’s ability to bring new and exciting products to market.
