The Environment and Safety Division produces reliable and impartial knowledge about environmental quality in relation to human activity. This knowledge is made available to the public sector in a readily accessible and practical form. The division is particularly concerned with human health and the sustainability of the ecosystem.

Tasks
This division of RIVM acts as a national knowledge centre, supporting government and public institutions in their efforts to maintain a clean, safe and healthy human environment. The division also advises on matters of policy, legislation and enforcement, both on an everyday basis and in the event of a major incident. The division ensures ongoing development of the relevant knowledge in association with its clients. It represents the Netherlands in various international forums and coordinates the development and implementation of European legislation on behalf of the Dutch government.

Clients and partners
RIVM's partnership with the Ministry of the Environment and the Ministry of Health is established by means of long-term contracts. There is also ongoing collaboration with the ministries of Agriculture, Social Affairs and Employment, and Transport, Public Works and Water Management. Incidental projects are conducted for other ministries (e.g. Interior, Defence and Justice), for the European Union and for regional and local authorities.
The Director of the Environment and Safety Division is Dr Reinout Woittiez.