The NIOSH Construction Program: research to practice, impact, and developing a National Construction Agenda

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health and Safety
• Construction Industry Research
• Program Planning and Evaluation

Background:

• The U.S. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Construction Program aims to protect worker health and safety.
• Evolving perspectives emphasize research impact and tangible benefits beyond scientific output.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the NIOSH Construction Program's experience with recent planning initiatives.
• To outline the development of strategic goals for future construction research.
• To integrate lessons learned into research planning for improved worker safety and health.

Main Methods:

• An independent external review of the program's past decade of work.
• Development of strategic goals for the next decade, forming the National Construction Agenda.
• Stakeholder and researcher input collection for goal setting within the National Occupational Research Agenda (NORA).

Main Results:

• The program underwent an external review and developed a "National Construction Agenda" with strategic goals.
• The agenda, part of the NIOSH National Occupational Research Agenda (NORA), provides a framework for collaborative efforts.
• Incorporation of lessons learned to ensure research relevance and tangible benefits for worker safety.

Conclusions:

• Program planning evolved to incorporate external reviews and strategic goal-setting.
• The National Construction Agenda aims to guide future research and industry collaboration.
• Focusing on research impact and tangible benefits is crucial for improving construction worker health and safety.