On a recent visit to Cincinnati we drove by the National Institute of Occupational Health and Safety (NIOSH) campus where Karen did an internship many years ago. It was a great experience, and a strong sense of gratefulness and appreciation continues.
NIOSH has remained dedicated to,
- Ensuring professional and technical education support,
- Ensuring health and safety standards,
- Reducing exposure to toxic materials and harmful physical agents and substances, and
- Conducting safety and health research.
Even though the agency experienced significant staffing reductions (almost 90% of its staff!) and program cuts (including NORA Grants) in early 2025, (NIOSH) still operates under the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The layoffs and structural changes were widely criticized as a dismantling of the agency.
But despite the structural changes and smaller workforce, health and safety support continue. Following public criticism, some NIOSH employees have been rehired, and efforts were made to reinstate programs. The institute still conducts research and makes recommendations for improving workplace safety and health.
NIOSH-funded Education and Research Centers (ERCs) remain open; however, some NIOSH programs have been impacted. Many university based ERCs, including those at UNC, Johns Hopkins, and Harvard, continue to operate and provide outreach activities. However, several research lab facilities have closed and the cuts drastically impacted mining safety research and respirator approval programs.
We know that many reading this benefitted from NIOSH research and services! Perhaps through technical safety training and support? Please share how your safety program as well as your Safety Committee utilized and benefitted from NIOSH information!