Industrial Hygiene

FREE

Industrial Hygienist

Industrial Hygiene This is the science that deals with the anticipation, recognition, and evaluation of workplace conditions that can possibly cause an injury or illness.

Thorough monitoring and analysis are done by Industrial hygienists to assess and evaluate the extent of exposure to potential hazards.

Air Contaminants Gas or Vapor

Chemical Hazards Elements or compounds with harmful effects when inhaled, in contact with skin, or ingested.

Biological Hazards Bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other organisms which can cause infection.

Physical Hazards Excessive temperature, noise, vibration, illumination, and electromagnetic radiation.

Indoor Air Quality

Preventive Maintenance (PM)

Positions of damper and functioning belts, baffles, ductwork, and system balance must be checked.

Measure and perform adjustments for better indoor airflow.

Regularly replace filters on air handling units.

Clean dampers and ducts.

Damaged insulation must be replaced.

Controlling Microbial Contamination

Industrial Ventilation Systems

Basic Types of Ventilation Systems Dilution and Removal by General Exhaust Local Exhaust Makeup air or Replacement Heating, Ventilation, and Air conditioning (HVAC) Recirculation Systems NOTE: Ventilation systems generally involve a combination of these types of systems.

Which of the following is not one of the purposes of a ventilation system?

It is possible for the ventilation system to transport reactive chemicals to other parts of the building.

Ventilation systems can also transport smoke from tobacco.

Sometimes, the outside air is the source of indoor air contamination.

Exposure Assessment

Priority Situations1 Initial studies to assess workers’ exposure Follow-up monitoring/surveillance Exposure assessment for epidemiological studies.

Elimination Advice to completely eliminate exposure hazards will be given.

Substitution As much as possible, use a less harmful substance.

Engineering controls Local exhaust ventilation, wetting systems, physical barriers, etc.

Administrative controls Housekeeping, training, policies and procedures, signage, etc.

Personal protective equipment (PPE) Respirators, eye protection, protective clothing, etc.

Preparing for Inspection

Industrial Hygienists generally show up unannounced to conduct workplace inspections.

They review our company's history, operations and processes, and our standards before the on-site visit.

Imminent danger situations, or hazards that could cause death or serious physical harm

Severe injuries and illnesses, such as work-related fatalities, inpatient hospitalizations, amputations, or loss of an eye.

Worker complaints, like allegations of hazards or violations, also receive a high priority; employees may request anonymity when they file complaints.

Referrals of hazards from other agencies, individuals, organizations, or the media.

Targeted inspections, or inspections aimed at specific “high hazard” industries or workplaces that have experienced high rates of injuries and illnesses.

Follow-up inspections, which check for the adequate abatement of previously cited violations.

Actions you can take if your company received OSHA's Citations. 1 Acknowledge the citation, fix the problem, and pay the fine Participate in an informal conference with OSHA Send a written rebuke of the citation within 15 business days of the final order.

Our own inspection procedure shall be implemented to prepare us whenever an inspector arrives.

Regular checking and identification of potential violations will be made.

We will seek consultation services for potential violations that are difficult to address.

Proper training will be given to you, including your rights under OSHA.

Tools and materials for inspection shall be prepared beforehand.

Important documents are consolidated and prepared upon the inspectors' request.

Remember and carry out all worksite regulations and general industry safety orders.