NIOSH Centers for Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing Safety and Health (U54)

The Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing (AgFF) sector is essential to the safety, security, and economic stability of the U.S. because it produces the nation's food, fuel, and fiber. At the same time, AgFF workers experience some of the highest occupational fatality and non-fatal injury rates of any sector. AgFF workers also face increased risk of poor mental health, death by suicide, and substance use disorder. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) is committed to addressing a wide range of occupational health and safety hazards affecting people who work in the production, processing, and transportation of AgFF products. This notice of funding opportunity (NOFO) will support up to twelve regional NIOSH Centers for Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing Safety and Health (AgFF Centers). Each AgFF Center will advance the NIOSH mission and priorities through high-quality research, education, training, and outreach. Key Center activities include: Conducting high-quality, multidisciplinary science, with an emphasis on intervention and implementation research; Advancing AgFF research-to-practice (r2p) by translating scientific discoveries into practical, real-world solutions; Developing and evaluating technology, including AI and automation, to reduce workplace hazards and improve health outcomes for AgFF workers; Engaging with a variety of regional and national partners to effectively communicate new knowledge and best practices; Integrating food systems and One Health approaches into occupational safety, health, and well-being; and Improving the coordination and collection of data on injury, illness, disability, and death for AgFF workers. AgFF Centers work closely with NIOSH AgFF program leadership and collaborate with other AgFF Centers, NIOSH scientists (when applicable), academic and research partners, industry and community groups, and other organizations. Funded Centers are expected to have significant, widespread, and sustained local and regional impact. Together, these efforts should collectively contribute to the national advancement of AgFF workers' safety, health, and well-being.