What is the primary role of NIOSH?

The primary role of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) is to focus on occupational safety and health, particularly through the evaluation and certification of safety equipment. Testing and certifying respirators is a crucial function of NIOSH, as it ensures that the respirators provided to workers meet safety standards and perform effectively in protecting them from inhalation hazards. This process typically involves rigorous testing under various conditions to assess the respirators' filtration capabilities, fit, and overall safety.

In contrast, while the regulatory oversight of pesticide use falls to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), NIOSH does not have authority in that area. Similarly, NIOSH does not engage in developing pesticide chemicals, as this is outside its mission. Though NIOSH provides support and guidance on safety training related to occupational health risks—including those concerning pesticides—their primary focus is on the proper functioning and certification of protective equipment like respirators, making the first choice the most accurate representation of NIOSH's key responsibilities.