What was one initial objective of the IBEW in terms of safety?

One of the initial objectives of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) regarding safety was to advocate for federal regulations using injury data. This aim reflects the organization's commitment to improving safety standards in the workplace for electrical workers by utilizing empirical evidence to support the need for regulations. By analyzing injury data, the IBEW could identify trends and hazards specific to the electrical industry, which informed their advocacy efforts for stronger, federally mandated safety standards. This proactive approach contributed to the development of a safer working environment and highlighted the importance of policy changes based on actual data.

The other options do not align with the IBEW's mission and objectives. For instance, decreasing workforce diversity contradicts the IBEW's goals of promoting equality and fairness in the workplace. Increasing the number of workers employed is not directly tied to safety objectives, as the focus is primarily on existing workers and improving conditions for them. Lastly, the elimination of OSHA altogether is contrary to the IBEW’s support for enhanced workplace safety standards, which often aligns with OSHA's regulations rather than opposing them.