The division also trains doctoral candidates in exposure measurement and assessment in its Doctoral Program in Exposure Assessment . The Occupational Health Division, directed by Howard M. Kipen, MD, MPH , studies the complex interrelation between health and work and provides a comprehensive program to prevent work-related illnesses. Responding to the needs of employees, employers, and the state, staff are currently engaged in teaching, research, and service programs in the areas of occupational and environmental medicine, medical surveillance, stress management, and occupational epidemiology. Specific projects include occupational health surveillance of hazardous waste workers, assessment of innovative approaches to controlling workplace stress, and development of improved techniques to monitor workers exposed to chemical and physical agents. The division's Environmental and Occupational Health Clinical Center evaluates patients for a variety of exposures in the hme, community, and workplace.
Special emphasis is given to the investigation of new environmental and occupational diseases.
The division's postgraduate residency training program in occupational and environmental medicine is one of only thirty such programs nationwide. The Public Education and Risk Communication Division, under the direction of Audrey R. Gotsch, DrPH , provides clear and useful information to the general public, school children, teachers, employees, and health professionals on preventing environmental and occupational health risks and averting alcohol and drug problems among high-risk youth. The primary goals of the division are to enhance the environmental literacy level for specific target groups and to evaluate risk communication strategies. By meeting the national need for accurate public information, education, and training about environmental and occupational health and alcohol and drug problems, the division serves as a critical link between research and the application of new knowledge in the community. Under the leadership of Honorary Chairman Senator Bill Bradley, the division's advisory committee convenes experts from industry, labor, government, the media, environmental groups, and major health organizations to create an objective educational program that answers the public need for scientifically sound information.