Established in 1935 the IFA Institute for Occupational Safety and Health has a rich history. Its origins lie in a dust abatement facility. This evolved into the IFA we know today. Located in Sankt Augustin near Bonn the IFA is a cornerstone of German occupational safety. It’s a non-profit institution. Part of the German Social Accident Insurance system the IFA plays a vital role. It supports institutions in solving scientific and technical problems. These relate to occupational safety and health.
The IFA’s work is multifaceted. It conducts research development and investigations. It also tests products and material samples. Workplace measurements and advice are a key part of their services. The institute participates in standardization and regulation-setting bodies. It provides technical information and expertise. Crucially the IFA tests and certifies products. It also certifies quality management systems for producers and companies. These certified products and manufacturers are listed in a certificate database.
The IFA’s commitment extends beyond Germany. It provides international proficiency testing schemes for laboratories and measuring stations. It works closely with 23 international occupational safety and health institutes. It’s a member of PEROSH a European research federation. The director is even a member of the Zero Accident Forum.
The IFA’s fields of activity are impressively broad. They cover chemical biological and physical hazards. This includes analyzing various pollutants and biological agents. They address issues like dust noise vibration and radiation. Ergonomics is another major focus. This involves ergonomic methods and processes. They conduct measurements using the CUELA system a personal measurement system employing modern sensor technology. The IFA also delves into epidemiology and accident prevention. They cover topics such as product safety and the safety of machines and installations. They are involved in the exciting and fast-evolving world of collaborative robots or COBOTS. They also tackle the challenges of virtual reality in human-system interaction and trustworthy artificial intelligence.
The IFA’s impact is also evident in its publications. They maintain a database with information on approximately 8800 substances. This GESTIS Substance Database is freely available online and as a mobile app. They also offer databases on biological agents dust explosion characteristics and international occupational limit values for hazardous substances. The IFA’s exposure database MEGA is a treasure trove of data. It has been collecting data on hazardous chemicals since 1972. It supports the institutions for statutory accident insurance with epidemiological issues or retrospective considerations related to occupational diseases.
Through its research testing and certification the IFA significantly contributes to worker safety. It plays a pivotal role in shaping occupational safety and health standards both nationally and internationally. Its dedication to creating safer workplaces is evident in its comprehensive work and enduring legacy. The IFA’s influence stretches across Germany and far beyond. It’s a testament to the importance of research and collaboration in protecting workers. Here at the IFA you’ve witnessed a remarkable institution dedicated to safety.