750 Introduction to Industrial Hygiene

Introduction

Industrial hygiene is the science of protecting and enhancing the health and safety of people at work. It involves the anticipation, recognition, evaluation, and control of environmental factors or stresses that may cause illness, injury, or discomfort.

These factors can include:

• Chemical hazards like gases, vapors, or dusts)
• Biological hazards like bacteria, viruses, or mold
• Physical hazards such as noise, radiation, or temperature extremes
• Ergonomic hazards from poor workstation design or repetitive motion

Industrial hygienists use tools and methods to measure exposure and recommend controls such as ventilation, protective equipment, or process changes to keep workers safe.

This training introduces how industrial hygienists use environmental monitoring and analytical methods to detect the extent of worker exposure. How to employ engineering controls, work practice controls, and other methods to control potential workplace health hazards is also discussed.

Course Objectives