Key Questions
The following key questions are answered in this module:
What kind of education and training does a certified industrial hygienist have?
Certified industrial hygienists typically have a degree in (or have studied extensively) chemistry, biology, math, engineering, or other science-related topic. They have also completed additional IH coursework, have several years of work experience, and have passed a certification examination.
What are the most common workplace hazards?
Airborne contaminants, chemical hazards, biological hazards, and physical hazards, including noise hazards and ergonomic hazards.
What is the main difference between chemical hazards and biological hazards?
Biological hazards, like bacteria and viruses, have the ability to replicate themselves; chemical hazards do not.
What kinds of precautions should be used to protect workers from chemical hazards?
Workers who must work with or around chemicals should review all relevant safety data sheets, understand the potential hazards and proper precautions, use all required personal protective equipment (PPE), and follow all established procedures and protocols.
What is the "Hierarchy of Controls"?
An arrangement of hazard controls, with the most effective at the top and least effective at the bottom. From top to bottom, they include hazard elimination, engineering controls, administrative controls, and personal protective equipment (PPE).