Image credit: Getty Image / HowLettery

As we approach Thanksgiving, it’s the perfect time to reflect on 2024 and express our heartfelt gratitude for the incredible accomplishments we’ve achieved together. AIHA members have shown an impressive commitment to protecting workers and their communities by shaping public policies. This year alone, AIHA members have engaged in more than 2,400 instances of government relations volunteerism, with many helping author AIHA's comments on proposed regulations. This remarkable milestone is nearly double what we achieved last year, and is a testament to our members’ tireless dedication. These efforts are part of why AIHA continues to be recognized as a trusted source of OEHS expertise. So far this year, our recommendations have been referenced 498 times in federal and state regulations, legislation, and comments, with more expected to come before the year concludes.

Throughout 2024, AIHA submitted more than 187 pages of detailed recommendations to various government entities on key OEHS issues, including heat stress, emergency response, exposure to wildfire smoke by outdoor workers, lead pipes, and proposed rules under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). This year also saw AIHA members provide testimony on OSHA’s proposed Emergency Response Standard and being selected to testify before a Congressional committee on the public health effects of PFAS.

We’re especially thankful for the formation and volunteer leadership of AIHA’s Military and Uniformed Services Support Committee. MUSSC supports, connects, and serves AIHA members with ties to the military and uniformed services by:

• providing a platform for networking and professional development among members with military backgrounds or connections
• supporting the transition of military personnel and veterans into civilian OEHS careers through mentorship, resources, and career guidance
• advocating for the unique needs and challenges faced by OEHS professionals working in military and uniformed services
• collaborating with other AIHA committees and external organizations to address issues related to OEHS in the military and uniformed services

Building on our OEHS workforce development public policy priority, we launched a survey this year to better understand how our members are currently participating in, or would like to participate in, middle school, high school, and college-level science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education (STEM) clubs, competitions, and career fairs. More than 400 members responded, providing us with new direction for the future as we encourage more students to pursue careers in OEHS.

Together, these accomplishments underscore our goal of protecting workers and their communities by channeling AIHA members’ technical expertise into focused, effective public policy recommendations.

As we gather with friends and family this Thanksgiving, we are reminded of the power of community: none of this could be possible without our passionate members who volunteer their time, expertise, and energy to make a difference.

Looking ahead to 2025, we are filled with hope and excitement for what we can achieve together. There are numerous opportunities for continued engagement. Whether you want to join the MUSSC, join one of our state and federal government relations teams, or take part in our advocacy efforts on Capitol Hill, your voice matters.

This Thanksgiving, we extend our sincere gratitude to each of you for your contributions and look forward to all we will accomplish in the year ahead. Thank you for your volunteerism!