What is the primary role of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)?

The primary role of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) is to conduct research and make recommendations for the prevention of work-related injuries and illnesses. NIOSH focuses on studying various occupational hazards, including those related to chemicals, ergonomics, and worker safety. Through its research, NIOSH aims to provide evidence-based strategies to reduce risks in the workplace, which helps to inform policy decisions and safety guidelines.

While regulatory bodies like the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) are responsible for enforcing safety standards and conducting inspections, NIOSH’s main emphasis is on research and the dissemination of information gathered from that research to improve workplace health and safety across various industries. This distinction is crucial in understanding the role NIOSH plays in occupational health and safety.