The program was founded in 1996 to provide a framework for research collaborations among universities, large and small businesses, professional societies, government agencies, and worker organizations.
[1] Dr. Linda Rosenstock, appointed director of NIOSH in 1994, saw the Institute as an agency that yielded strong scientific research but needed stronger connections to the real-world workforce.
Organizations including General Motors, IBM, Mobil, the United Auto Workers, and the American Public Health Association joined NIOSH in developing the agenda.
NIOSH sought additional aid through a series of public town meetings held in Chicago, Seattle, and Boston.
[8] NORA councils consists of participants from various backgrounds, affiliations and expertise, including stakeholders from universities, large and small businesses, professional associations, government agencies, and worker organizations.
The NORA industry sector councils for the 2016-2026 decade are as follows:[9][10][11] In addition, NIOSH identified seven cross-sectors which focus on the health and safety issues affecting workers.