Fri Sep 20 13:35:19 UTC 2024: ## NIOSH Commemorates 9/11, Highlights Ongoing Efforts to Protect Responders

**New York, NY –** In recognition of the 22nd anniversary of the 9/11 attacks and the ongoing impact on those who responded, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has released a statement detailing its work to protect emergency responders and survivors. The tragic events highlighted the need for comprehensive support for those who put their lives on the line, particularly in the face of unprecedented hazards.

NIOSH’s commitment to protecting responders is evident in programs like the WTC Health Program, which provides medical monitoring and treatment for certified 9/11-related health conditions. As of September 2024, over 130,000 members are enrolled in the program, benefiting from specialized care tailored to their unique experiences.

The institute has also established the Emergency Preparedness and Response Program, aimed at ensuring adequate representation of occupational safety and health knowledge in emergency situations. This program covers all types of disasters, including natural, chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear events.

To better understand and address the specific challenges faced by firefighters, NIOSH has undertaken several research projects. These include studying the contaminants firefighters are exposed to, the ways in which these contaminants enter and leave the body, and the potential health effects.

NIOSH has also launched the National Firefighter Register (NFR) for Cancer, a critical step in bridging knowledge gaps about the link between firefighter exposures and cancer.

“This time of the year gives us the opportunity to honor, in both memory and action, all those impacted by the events of September 11, 2001,” said NIOSH leadership in their statement. “As we look to the future, NIOSH will continue its efforts to keep emergency responders safe and healthy as they do the same for our communities.”

The statement serves as a reminder of the ongoing consequences of 9/11 and underscores NIOSH’s commitment to the long-term health and safety of those who dedicate their lives to protecting others.

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