Occupational hygiene is the scientific discipline concerned with recognising, evaluating and controlling workplace health risks. Occupational hygienists use science and engineering to develop cost-effective solutions to control both obvious and hidden risks to health.
99% of work related deaths are caused by occupational diseases, not accidents. These diseases are caused by exposure to hazards such as noise, vibration, dusts, chemicals, fumes and gases.
Employers have a duty under health and safety law to assess workplace risks and to implement control measures to eliminate or reduce those risks, so far as reasonably practicable.
The aim of occupational hygiene is to help employers prevent ill health caused by the working environment.
