Institute Profile

The National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM) is a recognized leading center of expertise in the fields of health, nutrition, and environmental protection.  RIVM works mainly for the Dutch government, but staff share their knowledge with governments and supranational entities around the world. The results of their research, monitoring, modeling and risk assessment activities are used to underpin policy on public health, food safety, and the environment. RIVM employs more than 1,500 employees, many of whom work in multidisciplinary fields.

RIVM performs tasks to promote both public health, and a healthy and safe living environment. The principal task of RIVM is to conduct research and collect knowledge worldwide. Results are used to support the Dutch government in formulating its policy. RIVM’s tasks include:

• Research
• Policy support
• National coordination
• Intervention programs
• Provision of information to professionals and the general public

RIVM is responsible for providing impartial and reliable information to members of the public and professionals who work in the fields of health care, infectious diseases, medicine, the environment, and nutrition and safety.