Which agency conducts research and testing for OSHA, including testing respirators?

• A. OSHA conducts research and testing for NIOSH
• B. NIOSH does research and testing for OSHA (including respirator testing)
• C. NIOSH does enforcement
• D. OSHA enforces regulations

Answer: (B)

The key idea is how the two agencies work together, with one doing the scientific work and the other applying it in the field. NIOSH is the research arm that supports OSHA by conducting studies and evaluating technologies, including respirators. This includes testing respirators to establish performance standards and verify that they meet protection requirements. OSHA then uses that scientific basis to set workplace standards and enforce them.

So, while OSHA sets and enforces safety rules, it relies on NIOSH for the technical foundation: research findings, testing results, and the certification of respirators. That partnership ensures that respirators meet proven safety criteria before they’re relied on in workplaces. The other options describe roles that don’t fit this collaboration—NIOSH doesn’t enforce regulations, and OSHA doesn’t primarily perform the research and testing itself.