Useful links

The IFA supports the German Social Accident Insurance Institutions and their organisations particularly in solving scientific and technical problems relating to safety and health protection at work; the IFA does so by means of

• research, development and investigations
• testing of products and material samples
• workplace measurements and advice
• participation in standardisation and regulation setting bodies
• technical information and expertise

Explains the technological aids programs, whose purpose is to optimize the social integration of people with a physical disability and to bring together the services of experts in the creation of tools, mainly ortheses and prostheses to alleviate certain handicaps. Mentions the three major orientations of the research activities:

• Sensory-motor functions and adaptation to the environment
• Sensory and psychological functions and lifestyles
• Care, services and programs in adaptation-rehabilitation

Describes projects and achievements in several fields, including occupational health:

• Musculoskeletal disorders
• Work-related respiratory diseases
• Biological hazards in the workplace
• Danger-free pregnancy in the workplace
• Work organization and working conditions

Provides a list of interesting public health events worldwide. Contains one section dealing with the current special files and another suggesting research-related sites.

Presents the Institute’s history, the types of members, and the milieus where the professionals come from (for example, government, commercial research, public organizations, etc.). Lists the Institute’s objectives, including the following:

• Maintenance of the professional standards of its members
• Maintenance of the safety skills and knowledge among its membership
• Further the interests of the safety profession within the areas of membership of the Institute
• Maintenance of dialogue with other professional bodies in areas of related interest
• etc.

Addresses the different international cooperation projects conducted by the institute and lists the services offered to industries, for example the initiation of surveys, health and safety promotion, a mobile training service intended for contractors on sites, etc. Defines the organization’s main departments:

• Engineering and computerization
• Hygiene
• Publishing
• Training
• Internet
• etc.

Contains information taken from scientific research published on the following subjects: low back pain, eyestrain, common hand and arm problems, the pros and cons of some ergonomic products, and the effectiveness of an organization in managing ergonomics. Also mentions a few preconceived ideas to avoid, and attempts to correct misinformation. Demystifies the numerous options related to ergonomic chairs and describes a few alternative solutions to the traditional keyboard. Proposes a list of tips to correct some daily discomforts.

The aim of the establishment of VÚBP is conducting scientific research in occupational safety and health protection at work as well as conducting specific tasks stemming from the International Labour Organisation conventions, existing legal regulations in Occupational Safety and Health (OSH), requirements of the Council of the European Union and the European Commission, the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work, Eurostat and needs of the founder and the labour inspection.

Focuses on research topics related to disabilities and handicap situations that may be musculoskeletal, neurological or sensory in nature in order to encourage research and collaboration between clinicians and university researchers. Provides access to the report of the annual general assembly of the members, and indicates how they can be reached. Explains the steps to be taken to obtain a grant.

Looks after health and safety in nuclear installations and mines, factors, farms, hospitals and schools, offshore gas and oil installations, the gas grid and the movement of dangerous goods and substances, railways, etc. Responsible for the regulation of almost all the risks to occupational health and safety in Britain.

Seeks and develops innovative approaches so that employees can work in a productive and healthy way. Exists to serve employees, technology, institutions and knowledge. Devotes its projects to the following fields:

• Ergonomics
• Physical workload
• Upper extremity musculoskeletal disorders
• New forms of work organisation
• Psychosocial factors at work
• National infrastructure – Occupational health and safety