The foundation of the Hellenic Institute for Occupational Health and Safety (ELINYAE) fills the gap in Greece that has long existed on issues concerning work conditions and the prevention of occupational risks. According to its constitution the objectives of the ELINYAE are: • to detect, record, process, investigate and analyse the various hazardous agents and conditions in the work environment and the effects they may have on the health and safety of the employees, • to elaborate regulations, rules and the relevant legislation, • to monitor international developments and experiences and forward documentation on OSH matters, • to promote the exchange of information within the social partners on issues of occupational health and safety, • to contribute to the investigation and solution of problems, arising from the interaction between the work environment, the general environment and expectations for work and living standards, • to study the impact of applications of new technologies and of new preventative measures for occupational risks, • to provide expertise on issues of occupational health and safety.