Well then you learned something today. This is from the Lincoln website. Any other welding products safety page or industrial procedures rules will tell you the same thing.

• First - before you attempt to light the torch follow these checks:
• Make sure regulator pressure adjustment screws are backed out!
• Make sure torch valves are closed!
• Stand away from front of regulator
• Separately and slowly open the oxygen and acetylene cylinder valves
• Adjust regulator p/a screws to tip pressure settings
• Open/close torch valves separately and fine tune pressure settings on regulators
• Depress cutting lever and adjust pressure if necessary

- See more at: http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Expert-Advice/tech-tips/worki...

Perhaps Ohio is different, but as far as I know the only exemption for businesses to NOT be regulated by OSHA is to only employ family members.