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Back to Topic Index Industrial
Hygiene
Industrial Hygiene is the art and science of anticipating, recognizing,
evaluating and controlling workplace conditions that may cause injury
or illness. Industrial hygienists have historically focused on limiting
personal exposures to chemicals, but the field has evolved to address
the control of other potential workplace stressors such as noise,
heat, repetitive motion and indoor air quality.
As a part of the Environment, Health, and Safety Program at MIT,
the primary responsibilities of the Industrial Hygiene Program (IHP)
include:
- Identifying and evaluating chemical and physical hazards that
may impact an individual's health,
- Recommending controls to limit exposures to identified hazards,
and if necessary assisting in the evaluation and selection protective
equipment;
- Designing and testing ventilation controls such as fume hoods
and specialty exhaust systems;
- Reviewing laboratory chemical hygiene plans and other protocols;
- Supporting medical surveillance for individuals exposed to
critical or highly regulated toxins.
- and providing the training and resources to ensure regulatory
compliance and foster best practices throughout the MIT community
IHP operates on the principle that preventive education, planning,
focused hazard analyses, and timely response to concerns about potential
exposures, coupled with a collaborative working relationship with
the MIT community, are critical to supporting MIT's EHS goals and
creating a healthier work environment.
Key areas on the MIT EHS website related to industrial hygiene
include:
Chemical Safety
Laboratory Ventilation
Respiratory Protection
Hearing Conservation
Asbestos
Indoor Air Quality
Ergonomics
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