Rapid Risk Factor Surveillance System (RRFSS)
The Institute for Social Research at York University houses the largest university- based survey research centre in Canada. RRFSS partners with the ISR to conduct the RRFSS on behalf of Member health organizations. The survey is conducted by ISR trained interviewers on resident’s landline and cell phones using computer assisted telephone interviewing (CATI) technology. Interviews are done with adults 18 years and older (16 years and older on request by Members) residing in households sampled through random digit dialling (RDD). Topics covered during the interview include risk behaviours and knowledge, attitudes and awareness about health-related topics of importance to public health. In addition to contracted data collection services, ISR also provides many in-kind supports to RRFSS Members including sharing their expertise in survey design, methodology and analysis.
For many years, the Association of Local Public Health Agencies (alPHa) has generously supported the RRFSS collaboration. Until 2024, the Association employed the RRFSS Coordinator. In addition, the Association has supported RRFSS by holding and tracking money from RRFSS Members and other parties, and making payments on behalf of RRFSS, as directed by the RRFSS Steering Group.