The Nat. Inst. for Occupational Safety and Health conducts research to prevent work-related illness, injury, disability, and death. On Oct. 8, 2001, the Office of Homeland Security (OHS) was established, which develops and coordinate the implementation of a comprehensive nat. strategy to secure the U.S. from terrorist threats or attacks. In Jan. 2002, the OHS formed the Interagency Workgroup on Building Air Protection, which includes representatives from various fed. agencies, including NIOSH. This document is the result of building vulnerability assessments conducted by NIOSH in 2002, as well a significant content and review recommendations provided by Workgroup members. Illustrations.

This document identifies actions that a building owner or manager can implement without undue delay to enhance occupant protection from an airborne chemical, biological, or radiological (CBR) attack.

The Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 assures so far as possible every working man and woman in the Nation safe and healthful working conditions. The Act charges the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health with conducting research and making science-based recommendations to prevent work-related illness, injury, disability, and death.