The American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP), the world’s oldest professional safety organization, is deeply concerned by reports that the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) will be drastically reduced as part of a government restructuring plan.

Also troubling is a government proposal not to renew leases at several area offices of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Both federal plans together — without the full capabilities of these top safety and health agencies — would result in operational shifts and significant layoffs that severely compromise the safety, health and well-being of millions of workers.

“We are closely monitoring these probable agency changes, knowing they would have lasting effects on workplace safety, industry innovation and worker well-being,” said ASSP President Pam Walaski, CSP, FASSP. “We urge lawmakers in the U.S. House and Senate to examine these issues carefully and take action to ensure that OSHA and NIOSH can continue their essential missions without disruptions.”

The Occupational Safety and Health Act, enacted by Congress and signed into law by President Nixon in 1970, established a framework that has greatly improved workplace safety through agencies such as OSHA and NIOSH.

“The data and evidence clearly show that these federal agencies have made a measurable difference in protecting workers across all industries,” Walaski said. “There is absolutely no question about it.”

OSHA helps safeguard workers from many hazards by setting and enforcing safety and health standards, providing training and education, and offering compliance assistance. NIOSH conducts vital research and develops key interventions that reduce worker injuries, illnesses and fatalities nationwide.

“A strong partnership between the public and private sectors is essential to occupational safety and health,” Walaski said. “ASSP has long supported government agencies that prioritize worker safety. Seeing them seriously weakened would be a profound loss for workers, businesses and our nation as a whole.”

For more than 100 years, ASSP has been a steadfast champion of environmental health and safety (EHS) programs and policies that are grounded in science, sound technology and effective public policy. Its 35,000 members are committed to supporting evidence-based practices that protect workers and strengthen businesses.

Learn more about ASSP’s public policy and position statements on the ASSP website.