AIHA Launches Campaign to Restore NIOSH Amid Devastating Cuts

Written By: Atanu Das on Wednesday, April 9, 2025

The campaign comes in response to significant federal budget cuts that threaten to dismantle the agency’s essential programs and research capabilities.

The Role of NIOSH in Workplace Safety

Established under the 1970 Occupational Safety and Health Act, NIOSH is a cornerstone of occupational health and safety in the United States. As part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it conducts research, develops recommendations, and implements programs aimed at preventing work-related illnesses and injuries. However, recent federal cuts proposed by the Trump administration could reduce NIOSH’s workforce to a fraction of its original size, effectively crippling its ability to fulfill its mission.

The impact of these cuts is far-reaching. Critical programs such as mining safety research, personal protective equipment (PPE) certification, and the World Trade Center Health Program are at risk. The National Firefighter Registry for Cancer, which was designed to study cancer risks among firefighters, has already been eliminated. Advocates warn that these reductions will leave millions of workers vulnerable to increased risks of injury, illness, and even death.

AIHA’s Advocacy Efforts

AIHA’s campaign aims to rally occupational and environmental health and safety (OEHS) professionals, policymakers, and the public to take action. Through its grassroots portal, AIHA provides prefilled template letters that individuals can send directly to their elected representatives. The campaign has already generated over 3,400 messages to legislators, emphasizing the importance of restoring NIOSH’s funding and staff.

In addition to mobilizing individuals, AIHA is working closely with allied organizations such as the American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) and the National Safety Council. Together, these groups are presenting a unified front against the proposed cuts. More than 100 members of Congress have joined AIHA in urging President Trump and Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to reverse these decisions.

The Economic Case for NIOSH

Beyond its critical role in protecting worker health, NIOSH also delivers significant economic value. AIHA President Nicole Greeson highlighted that just three NIOSH case studies—costing $5.1 million—have generated annual economic benefits ranging from $338 million to over $1.2 billion. This return on investment underscores the agency’s importance not only for public health but also for economic stability.

What's at Stake?

The proposed cuts would reduce NIOSH’s workforce from approximately 1,400 employees to fewer than 150, leaving only a skeleton crew to manage select programs like the World Trade Center Health Program. Experts warn that this will severely limit the agency's ability to conduct research, monitor workplace hazards, and provide guidance on safety protocols.

Lawrence Sloan, CEO of AIHA, expressed grave concerns about the ripple effects these cuts would have on both workers and industries reliant on NIOSH’s expertise. “The elimination of programs dedicated to mining safety and PPE certification raises significant concerns about the future effectiveness of safety protocols and the availability of reliable protective equipment for workers,” he stated.

Join the Fight

AIHA urges all stakeholders—professionals in OEHS fields, business leaders, policymakers, and concerned citizens—to join their campaign. By advocating for NIOSH’s restoration, supporters can help ensure that workplace safety remains a national priority.

For more information on how you can contribute to this vital effort, visit AIHA’s website or contact your representatives today. Together, we can protect workers’ health and safety while preserving one of the world’s leading workplace health agencies.