National Institute for Occupational Safety and Prevention (ISPESL): role in occupational health and safety.

The article explains the role of the Italian National Institute for Occupational Safety and Prevention (ISPESL), a public research body dealing with occupational and environmental health. Its organization, institutional roles, activities, facilities, and resources are outlined. Especially important is ISPESL's participation in national and international occupational safety and health networks. The Institute is active in epidemiologic surveillance of workers exposed to physical, chemical, and biological hazards.