ASSP and AIHA collaborate to improve worker safety and health

Longtime industry allies American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) and American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA) have signed a three-year memorandum of understanding that outlines how the organizations will continue to collaborate on advancing workplace safety and health, and strengthening the occupational safety and health profession. ASSP and AIHA have worked together to improve work environments and advance the profession for more than 20 years.

“We have a common mission to prevent workplace injuries, illnesses and fatalities, so we share best practices and work together where possible to advance legislation and improve occupational safety and health practices and outcomes,” said ASSP President Deborah Roy, M.P.H., RN, COHN-S, CSP, CIT, FASSP, FAAOHN. “Our mutual interests in improving the well-being of workers in every industry worldwide create many opportunities for collaboration.”

According to the memorandum of understanding, the cooperation between ASSP and AIHA over the next year includes sharing COVID-19 content and best practices; leading initiatives through the Center for Safety and Health Sustainability; determining criteria for academic program accreditation related to environment, health and safety; coordinating government affairs activities; developing training and continuing education programs; revising voluntary national consensus standards; and exploring regulatory and legislative issues of common interest. The organizations will develop new action plans in each subsequent year under the agreement.

“We welcome this important agreement which continues and strengthens the existing relationship between AIHA and ASSP,” said AIHA President Lindsay Cook, CSP, CIH, FAIHA. “We look forward to continuing our work together in enhancing safety and health in the workplace.”

Many occupational safety and health professionals are members of both organizations. ASSP and AIHA routinely distribute each other’s safety and health information to members and social media followers, drawing attention to key issues and helpful resources. Both organizations provide the other with opportunities to speak at stakeholder meetings and safety education events throughout the year.