NIOSH: National Institute for Occupational Safety & Health

The Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 created the National Institute for Occupational Safety & Health (NIOSH) within the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services.

NIOSH was made responsible for:

• Conducting research for setting new occupational standards.
• Implementing workforce education, development, & training programs.
• Evaluating occupational data and potential workplace hazards.
• Determining and listing the toxicity of various substances.

NIOSH makes recommendations to OSHA via Criteria Documents.

• >400 Criteria Documents
• 16,000 chemicals not covered (unregulated)
• 65,000 chemicals interstate commerce