Cal/OSHA regulations address four primary work environments: general industry, construction, maritime, and agriculture. The state's numerous regulations aim to minimize and prevent occupational illness, injuries, and fatalities. Online certification courses are a convenient way to ensure compliance with Title 8 safety standards for various potential workplace hazards. Cal/OSHA training also addresses employer/employee responsibilities relating to reporting, recordkeeping, inspections, and responding to emergencies.

The California Department of Industrial Relations protects worker safety and health by researching and setting standards that become part of a system of "safety orders." All workplace safety orders are catalogued under Cal/OSHA Title 8. Employers must comply with all applicable Title 8 standards, including Cal/OSHA training requirements.

The California Occupational Safety and Health Administration (Cal/OSHA) oversees and enforces the state's workplace safety and health laws. California is one of 22 states with an OSHA-approved state plan, which covers all state and local government workers, as well as most private-sector workers. Only employees of the federal government and offshore maritime workers are exempted from Cal/OSHA. These workers are covered under the federal OSHA plan.