A strategy for responding to information demands in occupational health

The explosion in scientific information has created serious difficulties for data retrieval and utilization in occupational health. Ready access to pertinent, intelligible and useful information represents one of the most pressing problems in the field, not only for professionals but also for the clientele they serve. Effective information management is required for professionals to respond speedily and appropriately to requests for data and advice in occupational health. This paper describes a response strategy involving the collection, evaluation, presentation and dissemination of occupational health information and outlines the contribution and importance of information technology and information science to the area of occupational health.