Health Hazard Evaluation Program - HHE Process

HHE Process

NIOSH first sends a letter to the person making the request. Then NIOSH sends information back to this person or can make a referral to another agency. This letter of referral is sent within four to six weeks. If needed, a project officer is assigned. This usually happens if a telephone consultation or visit to the workplace is necessary. Before visiting the workplace, however, NIOSH also contacts the employer. NIOSH does not usually conduct surprise visits. After NIOSH addresses the HHE, NIOSH reports its preliminary findings to employers, employees, and employee representatives (such as labor unions). Verbal reports are usually given to employers and the employee representatives. At this point, the results are mostly incomplete. A written interim report is sometimes proffered. After more research into the HHE, NIOSH compiles a final report. This report is sent to OSHA, the employer, the employee representatives, and other agencies. The employer must then post this report and the information therein where all employees can view it.