The Important Role of an Industrial Hygienist for Safe Work Environments
Industrial hygiene is defined as the science of anticipating, recognizing, evaluating, and controlling environmental factors in the work environment that may cause illness, injury, or discomfort to workers. The focal point of this area of expertise is a trained professional known as the Industrial Hygienist who uses both scientific principles and practical solutions in order to maintain the health and well-being of employees. The certified industrial hygienist is the most qualified individual to target occupational hazards, demonstrate competence in determining control measures, and implement mitigation measures.
Identifying Workplace Hazards The process of identifying workplace hazards starts with an evaluation of the types of hazards that exist within a given work environment. Recognized hazards are placed into
classification categories, including chemical, physical, biological, and ergonomic hazards.
Examples of chemical hazards include: exposure to solvents, fumes, dust, vapours, and toxic gases. Examples of physical hazards temperatures, and vibration.
include:
noise,
radiation,
extreme
hot/cold
Examples of biological hazards include bacteria, viruses, mold, and other microorganisms that cause illness. Ergonomic hazards are caused by repetitive motion, poorly designed workstations, and improper lifting techniques that lead to musculoskeletal disorders.
Control Strategies for Successful Implementation of Controlling Hazards The process of controlling hazards begins after determining and evaluating how they may be present at a work site. Workplace Safety Professionals will then implement control actions based on an established hierarchy of controls designed to minimize risk as efficiently as possible.
Elimination is the first and most effective method to control hazards because it completely takes away the hazard at the workplace. If elimination is not practical, substituting hazardous materials or processes with safer or less hazardous means is typically next. Then, engineering controls, such as ventilation systems, sound barriers, or machine guards, may be utilized to prevent employee exposure or potential danger.
Afterwards, administrative controls such as employee training programs, rotating employees on the job, and establishing safety protocols further reduce the amount of exposure an employee could have.
Finally, personal protective equipment may be used as a last resort to protect employees who are at risk of injury from all other controls when their risk cannot be eliminated.
Bringing a certified industrial hygienist into your workplace adds credibility, competence, and leadership to your occupational health programs and aids in providing an ongoing level of protection for your employees and your business.
