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Indigenous knowledge for safer generations.
We are advancing Indigenous OH&S by turning lived experiences into research that creates meaningful change.
The first national research organization focused on Indigenous OH&S.
Our organization conducts occupational health and safety research with Indigenous communities to better understand the experiences and needs of workers. Our work addresses a critical gap in workplace research by creating knowledge where little currently exists.
Injuries account for 26% of all deaths among Indigenous people, compared with 6% in the general Canadian population, yet the data needed to understand why these disparities exist remains limited. We work to build that evidence directly from the experiences of Indigenous workers and communities.
Indigenous Led
Our work is shaped by Indigenous perspectives and ways of knowing.
Research Driven
We create new knowledge to better understand workplace health and safety.
Community Focused
Research is developed through meaningful relationships built on respect and trust.
Better knowledge leads to safer workplaces.
For too long, occupational health and safety research has lacked the data needed to fully understand Indigenous workplace experiences. Our purpose is to create new knowledge that reflects these realities and supports safer outcomes for future generations.
Indigenous experiences are underrepresented in research.
Many workplace health and safety systems are built from research that does not fully capture the experiences of Indigenous workers. Creating space for these voices leads to a better understanding of workplace realities.
Better information creates better understanding.
Without accurate research, it is difficult to identify the challenges workers face or develop meaningful solutions. Indigenous-led research helps build knowledge that reflects real experiences.
Research creates pathways for prevention.
Understanding workplace experiences is the first step toward improving safety. Research findings help guide decisions, strengthen prevention efforts, and support healthier workplaces.
Research shaped by the people it represents.
We work alongside Indigenous communities throughout the research process to ensure knowledge is gathered respectfully and transformed into meaningful outcomes.
Community voices guide the process.
Every research project begins by understanding the priorities, experiences, and questions that matter most to the people involved.
Knowledge is gathered with care.
We use thoughtful research practices to collect information that reflects real workplace experiences and community realities.
Research becomes deeper understanding.
Findings are explored alongside Indigenous knowledge and perspectives to uncover meaningful insights
Knowledge returns to create change.
Research findings are shared back in ways that support stronger decisions and safer workplaces.
A founding partner in Indigenous worker advocacy.
NIRCOHS is one of the Founding Father Organizations behind the Confederation of Indigenous Workers, helping establish a national foundation for Indigenous-led worker advocacy. This relationship reflects a shared purpose: strengthening the systems, knowledge, and representation needed to better support Indigenous workers.
Our partners:
Stay connected.
Follow our latest research findings, community partnerships, and organizational milestones as we advance occupational health and safety for Indigenous workers across Canada. This is where we share the work that matters.
Are you an Indigenous, Inuit, or Métis worker?
All indigenous workers in Canada are invited to join the National Committee on Indigenous Labour. Stay up to date on workers’ rights and contribute your experience to our research.
