"Since the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 was passed, NIOSH has worked diligently and thoughtfully to protect the U.S. working population. NIOSH has relied heavily on science to guide its use of public resources, fulfill its responsi*bilities as outlined by Congress, and address critical occupational safety and health concerns. Over the years, policymakers, industry leaders, and organized labor have supported NIOSH'S mission and have agreed that scientific research is essential for effectively protecting workers. We are proud that our research and recommendations are reflected in the pioneer*ing national initiatives that have reduced occupational exposure to hazards such as asbestos, lead, vinyl chloride, and other industrial agents and have led to safer and healthier workplaces. As the U.S. economy moved from its predominantly manufacturing base towards a more service-providing economy in the 1980s and 1990S, NIOSH kept pace with its research to address issues such as indoor air quality, latex allergy, musculoskel*etal disorders, and workplace violence. Around this same time, NIOSH also became keenly aware of the need to expand its partnerships, leverage its resources, and more effectively demonstrate the value of its research. Today, our programs continue to evolve to meet the complex challenges that we face in the 21st century, including changing workforce dynamics, new demands, and emerging occupational safety and health issues. Through the creation of the National Occupational Research Agenda (NORA) we have expanded our diverse partnerships and leveraged resources. Every day, we strive to achieve our mission with the determination, commitment to sound science, spirit of partnership, knack for innovation, and unique understanding of the workplace that has served us and our stakeholders well for the past four decades. This document presents qualities that underpin our efforts and illustrates ways in which we continue to drive progress in occupational safety and health. We have in*cluded our efforts in such areas as NORA, research-to-practice, emergency response, partnership, nanotechnology, global collaborations, and other cross-cutting programs."

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