NIOSH Researcher Honored for Innovative work in Occupational Anthropometry

Contact: Christina Spring (202) 245-0633

National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) congratulates researcher Hongwei Hsiao, Ph.D. for being a finalist for the 2016 Samuel J. Heyman Service to America Medals (Sammies) in the Career Achievement category, for significant accomplishments throughout a lifetime of achievement in public service. Dr. Hsiao is an international leader in the field of occupational anthropometry and is currently the Chief of the Protective Technologies Branch in NIOSH’s Division of Safety Research.

Dr. Hsiao is an expert in how human body size-and-shape intersects with tools, machines, vehicles, and personal protective equipment intended to protect workers, a field known as occupational anthropometry. He established the NIOSH Occupational Anthropometry Program and Laboratory, equipped with state-of-the-art technology to collect data on body size and shape in 3D forms. His work has led the way for significant advancements in how equipment is designed, improving worker safety and health in construction, agriculture, emergency response, transportation, respirator uses, among others. Examples of Dr. Hsiao’s impact can be found on the NIOSH Anthropometric webpage.

“Throughout his career, Dr. Hsiao has demonstrated not only scientific excellence, but also a strong commitment to improving how to effectively protect workers on the jobs,” said NIOSH Director John Howard, M.D. “He’s been on the forefront of adopting new technologies to help find ways to better adapt to the diversity of the modern workforce. NIOSH is immensely proud to see him recognized for his contributions and service.”

The Service to America Medal recipients will be chosen by a committee appointed by award organizers, Partnership for Public Service. The awardees will be announced September 20 at the Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium in Washington, D.C.

The Samuel J. Heyman Service to America Medals honor stars of the Federal government workforce, highlighting the work of employees making significant contributions to the governance of the United States. More information about the program and the 2016 finalists’ achievements is available at www.servicetoamericamedals.org.

NIOSH is the federal agency that conducts research and makes recommendations for preventing work-related injuries, illnesses, and deaths. For more information about NIOSH visit www.cdc.gov/niosh/.