Industrial Hygienist
Field of Study — Science, Engineering & Diagnostic Instrumentation
Industrial hygienists evaluate health hazards, research health effects, risk assessment, and manage or consult occupational health programs. They anticipate, recognize, evaluate and control health hazards in occupational environments.
Industrial hygienists:
- collect samples of chemical and biological agents for analysis.
- prepare and calibrate equipment used to collect and analyze samples.
- investigate ventilation, lighting or other conditions affecting health, comfort or efficiency.
- evaluate radiation, noise and vibration exposure.
- review reports and conduct studies to determine if diseases or illnesses are work-related.
- recommend measures to ensure maximum employee protection.
- collaborate with other health professionals and management to remove or control hazardous and potentially hazardous materials.
- observe, analyze and report about industrial health problems and make recommendations.
- conduct or participate in epidemiological research.
- instruct employees about occupational health and accident prevention.
Some industrial hygienists are administrators, teachers, researchers or consultants. They may work alone or in teams. Some may work with government officials, environmental groups, organized labor groups or industrial managers.
Educational Requirements
Students interested in becoming industrial hygienists should take the most challenging high school courses available in science, math and English, including advanced placement courses.
An individual who wants to become an industrial hygienist should have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in occupational safety and health, environmental health engineering or one of the physical sciences (chemistry or biology).
Industrial hygienists may be certified by passing an exam offered by the American Board of Industrial Hygiene. At least five years of work experience, which can include credit for education (one year of credit for a master’s degree or two years for a doctorate), are required.
Educational Institutions
Virginia Colleges and Universities
Old Dominion University College of Health Sciences
Professional Associations
- American Industrial Hygiene Association
2700 Prosperity Ave.
Suite 250
Fairfax, VA 22031
(703) 849-8888
http://www.aiha.org - American Society of Safety Engineers
Colonial Virginia Chapter
P.O. Box 3001
Richmond, VA 23228
http://www.asse.org.vt.edu