Environmental exposure

Environmental extremes, including exposures to ultraviolet light (sunlight), water and air pollution, heat and smoke, and toxins, pose serious health risks to certain working populations. Scientists at the Institute characterize these risks and the mechanisms by which they adversely impact health.

Sleep and circadian health

Scientists at the Institute study the physiological effects of behaviors, including sleep, work schedules (including the body’s internal circadian clock), nutrition, exercise, and tobacco and cannabinoid use, to better understand their impact on worker health, safety, and well-being.

Safety at work

Occupational fatalities and injury are among the gravest threats to workers. To reduce this burden on worker well-being and productivity, researchers at the Institute investigate the causes and prevention of workplace injuries and fatalities, as well as workplace safety climates.

Supportive workplace practices

Factors including long work hours, workload, poor communication, and job insecurity all contribute to employee stress and increase the likelihood of workplace injuries and illness. At the Institute, scientists conduct workplace research that delivers support promoting worker physical and mental health.