industrial hygenist

Industrial Hygiene

The science of protecting and enhancing the health and safety of people at work and in their communities.

Black Lung Disease

A condition observed in coal miners characterized by similar respiratory symptoms.

Industrial Hygiene

The science of protecting and enhancing the health and safety of people at work and in their communities.

Black Lung Disease

A condition observed in coal miners characterized by similar respiratory symptoms.

Radium Exposure

Young females working in watch factories during WWI developed incurable bone cancer due to radium paint.

APHA

American Public Health Association, established a section for Industrial Hygiene in the 1930s.

Industrial Hygienist

A professional focused on anticipating, recognizing, evaluating, and controlling workplace hazards.

Toxicologists

Scientists who study the effects of harmful chemicals and establish exposure limits in collaboration with industrial hygienists.

Ventilation Types

Exhaust ventilation for direct removal of chemicals; dilution ventilation is less effective.

Noise Testing Equipment

A small red box with internal electronics used to measure sound pressure in environments.

OSHA Standards

Occupational Safety and Health Administration guidelines used to compare air sampling and noise testing results.

Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH)

A professional certification requiring a degree, work experience, and a comprehensive exam.

Continuing Education

The process required for CIH certification renewal every 5 years, involving points earned through various activities.

Charcoal Tubes

Devices used to capture organic chemicals for air sampling.

Filtered Paper Tests

Tests used to detect metals like lead and mercury in hazardous material assessments.

Emerging Issues

New chemical exposures and research increasingly impacting industrial hygiene, such as black lung disease.

Expert Witness Work

A role where industrial hygienists provide legal testimony in chemical exposure claims.

Data Analysis

The process of comparing sampling results with OSHA or ACGIH standards.

PPE (Personal Protective Equipment)

Protective gear required in various working environments to ensure safety from hazards.

Job Overlap

The interrelationship between industrial hygiene and other fields like safety and environmental regulations.

Average Salary (2017)

Estimated at $97,000 per year according to the 2017 OSHA Salary Guide.

Highest Salary (2017)

Reported to be $168,000 per year for industrial hygienists based on the 2017 data.

Continuing Education Courses

Courses required for certification renewal, which contribute towards the CIH certification process.

Silica Exposure

Linked to lung cancer, this risk is increased for those in occupations involving clays and sand.

Radiation & Radioactive Isotopes

Areas where industrial hygienists may be involved in research related to cancer treatment.

Noise Levels in Stadiums

High levels of noise, such as those experienced in environments like the Dallas Cowboys stadium.

Disaster Response Role

Industrial hygienists evaluate environmental hazards during natural disasters, such as hurricanes.

Legal Testimony

Contributions from industrial hygienists in legal contexts regarding chemical exposure claims.

Hearing Loss Prevention

Strategies recommended for safe exposure levels in noisy environments.

Career Outlook for Industrial Hygienists

Positive growth expected due to increased awareness of workplace safety and health regulations.

Job Opportunities

Industries such as construction, manufacturing, and healthcare often seek industrial hygienists.

Average Total Compensation (2020)

Estimated to be between $134,000 and $150,000 per year for industrial hygienists, including salary and benefits.

Education Length for Industrial Hygienists

Typically requires a bachelor's degree in industrial hygiene, environmental health, or a related field.

Prerequisites for Industrial Hygiene Certification

Candidates typically need a degree, work experience, and must pass the CIH exam.

Continuing Education Requirements

Industrial hygienists must earn professional development points to maintain CIH certification every five years.

Speaker Qualification

Professional industrial hygienists often share insights based on their extensive training and field experience.

Mentorship Opportunities

New industrial hygienists can benefit from mentorship programs with experienced professionals to enhance their skills.

Training Process for Industrial Hygienists

Involves acquiring knowledge on workplace hazards, regulatory standards, and safety practices through formal education and practical experience.

Exams for Certification

Candidates for Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH) must pass a comprehensive exam assessing their knowledge of industrial hygiene practices.

Recertification Process

To maintain CIH status, professionals must demonstrate ongoing education and accumulate professional development points every five years.

Hands-On Training

Practical training experiences that allow industrial hygienists to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings, ensuring effective hazard management.

Field Experience Requirements

Many certification programs require candidates to complete a certain amount of documented field experience under the supervision of qualified industrial hygienists.

Professional Development Opportunities

Includes workshops, seminars, and courses that contribute to the knowledge and skills necessary for effective practice in industrial hygiene.

Accreditation Bodies

Organizations like the American Board of Industrial Hygiene (ABIH) that set standards for education, experience, and examination in the field.