Workplace Environment (Occupational Hygiene)
The workplace enviroment program (Occupational Hygiene) provides information to departments and staff that allows for informed decision making regarding exposure to 'chemical' and 'physical' hazards in the workplace.
Occupational Hygienists assist departments in the measurement, evaluation and control of these workplace environment hazards that may result in an occupational injury or illness. The goal is to ensure the workplace has controls to prevent occupational illness.
Chemical hazards include any chemical capable of causing bodily injury or illness. The Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) also forms part of the chemical hazard program.
Physical Hazards, from an occupational hygiene perspective, generally includes indoor air quality issues such as mold, noise and temperature. The Heat Stress Management Program forms part of the physical hazard program.
Policy
- CH 15-014 Air Quality Concerns-Ventilation, Temperature, Humidity and Odours
- CH 15-016 Monitoring Measurements and Tests of Workplace Occupational Environment
- CH 15-017 Respiratory Protection
- CH 15-055 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- CH-15-100 Hearing Conservation Program
- CH 15-110 Heat Stress Management Program
- CH 20-100 Mould Prevention and Remediation
Fact Sheets
For fact sheets related to chemicals see the Chemical Safety (WHMIS) page
Resources
Program Contact:
Joanna Lu, MSc., Occupational Hygiene Technician
QEII Bethune Building, Room 260
1276 South Park Street
Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3H 2Y9
Tel: 902-473-7247
joanna.lu@nshealth.ca