What is the main function of NIOSH?

What is the main function of NIOSH?

• A. Enforce safety standards in the workplace
• B. Inspect worksites for compliance
• C. Issue fines for violations
• D. Conduct research and provide info, education, and training in the occupational health field

Answer: (D)

The main idea here is recognizing the difference between a research/information role and enforcement activities in occupational health. NIOSH, part of the CDC, is designed to conduct scientific research and to provide information, education, and training to prevent work-related injuries and illnesses. It develops evidence-based recommendations and guidelines, conducts surveillance and hazard evaluations, and produces training materials for workers and employers. It does not enforce safety standards, inspect worksites, or issue fines—those functions belong to OSHA. So the option describing research and the dissemination of information, education, and training in the occupational health field best captures NIOSH’s purpose.

The main idea here is recognizing the difference between a research/information role and enforcement activities in occupational health. NIOSH, part of the CDC, is designed to conduct scientific research and to provide information, education, and training to prevent work-related injuries and illnesses. It develops evidence-based recommendations and guidelines, conducts surveillance and hazard evaluations, and produces training materials for workers and employers. It does not enforce safety standards, inspect worksites, or issue fines—those functions belong to OSHA. So the option describing research and the dissemination of information, education, and training in the occupational health field best captures NIOSH’s purpose.