ISEA Applauds Reinstatement of NIOSH Staff
The International Safety Equipment Association said reinstating NIOSH staff preserves critical worker safety research, testing, and health programs.
- By Stasia DeMarco
- Jan 16, 2026
The International Safety Equipment Association (ISEA) welcomed the Trump Administration’s decision to reinstate staff at the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), reversing recent layoffs and preserving key worker safety and health programs.
ISEA said the move helps ensure continuity for critical research and services, including respiratory protection testing and certification, mining safety research, and health screening programs for coal miners. The association emphasized that maintaining NIOSH’s workforce supports worker protection while providing stability and regulatory certainty for employers and safety equipment manufacturers.
NIOSH, part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, plays a central role in occupational safety and health research and the development of standards. The reinstatement follows widespread concern from industry and worker advocates about the impact of staffing reductions on essential safety programs.
About the Author
Stasia DeMarco is the Content Editor for OH&S.