Trippler: Decision is Baffling

Aug. 1, 2008
I find it baffling he was not reappointed, said Aaron Trippler, director of government affairs for the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA),

“I find it baffling he was not reappointed,” said Aaron Trippler, director of government affairs for the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA), during an interview with Occupational Hazards. “But it's also not surprising.”

Trippler alluded to possible tension between Howard and Gerberding as a factor in the decision. “He and Gerberding probably did not get along,” Trippler said. “It's not surprising she did not reappoint him.”

The timing of Howard's departure is further complicated by the upcoming presidential election and possible future administration changes. Trippler said he was concerned that losing Howard as NIOSH director will create even more turbulence during a transitional period.

“I suspect we're going to see some changes for next year. Obviously, we're going to see some changes in the Department of Labor,” Trippler said. “That's why I think it would have been absolutely imperative to keep the status quo at NIOSH.”

In recent months, AIHA and the American Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE) separately urged President George W. Bush to renew Howard's NIOSH appointment.

About the Author

Sandy Smith

Sandy Smith is the former content director of EHS Today, and is currently the EHSQ content & community lead at Intelex Technologies Inc. She has written about occupational safety and health and environmental issues since 1990.

Sponsored Recommendations

Artificial Intelligence: What It Means for Safety and What's Next

Feb. 27, 2025
AI is changing the way many industries do business. Matt Law joins “The Case for Safety Podcast” to share how it’s impacting the safety profession.

10 Things Safety Professionals Should Know About Fire Sprinkler Systems

Feb. 27, 2025
From "The Incredibles" to "Changing Lanes," pop culture is full of myths about fire sprinkler systems. Expert Chris Butts helps set the record straight.

How to Improve Safety and Organizational Culture Through Risk Management

Feb. 27, 2025
By understanding and applying risk management concepts, you can improve safety and organizational culture — often with greater support from leadership.

Lithium-Ion Batteries: How to Overcome Current and Future Safety Challenges

Feb. 27, 2025
Lithium-ion batteries have helped usher in incredible technological advances from smartphones to electric vehicles — but they carry risks other batteries don't.

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of EHS Today, create an account today!