How to become an occupational hygienist

Is becoming an occupational hygienist right for me?

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Overview
What do occupational hygienists do?

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How to become an Occupational Hygienist

Becoming an occupational hygienist involves a combination of education, training, and experience.

  • Obtain a Bachelor's Degree: Start by earning a bachelor's degree in a relevant field, such as occupational health, environmental health, chemistry, industrial hygiene, or a related science discipline. During your undergraduate studies, try to take courses that focus on workplace health and safety, toxicology, and environmental monitoring.
  • Gain Work Experience: While a bachelor's degree can provide foundational knowledge, most employers and educational programs prefer candidates with practical experience in the field. Seek internships, co-op opportunities, or entry-level positions in occupational health and safety, environmental health, or industrial hygiene to gain valuable hands-on experience.
  • Pursue a Master's Degree (Optional): Though not always required, obtaining a Master's Degree in Occupational Health, Industrial Hygiene, or a related field can enhance your qualifications and competitiveness in the job market. Look for graduate programs accredited by organizations such as the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) or the American Board of Industrial Hygiene (ABIH).
  • Specialize in Occupational Hygiene: During your education and work experience, focus on developing expertise in occupational hygiene. This includes learning about exposure monitoring, risk assessment, hazard identification, and control measures related to workplace health hazards.
  • Obtain Professional Certifications: Earning certifications from reputable organizations, such as the American Board of Industrial Hygiene (ABIH), can significantly enhance your credentials. The Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH) designation is one of the most recognized certifications in the field.
  • Continue Professional Development: Stay up-to-date with the latest trends and developments in occupational hygiene by attending conferences, workshops, and seminars. Join professional organizations, such as the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA) or the American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP), to network with experts in the field.
  • Seek Employment: Apply for entry-level positions in occupational hygiene or related fields to gain practical experience and build your career. Consider opportunities in government agencies, private companies, consulting firms, healthcare facilities, or research institutions.
  • Pursue Advanced Education (Optional): If you aspire to higher-level positions or research roles, consider pursuing a Ph.D. in Occupational Health, Industrial Hygiene, or a related discipline.

Certifications
Occupational hygienists have the option to obtain certifications from reputable organizations to demonstrate their expertise and commitment to the field. Here are some prominent certifications available for occupational hygienists:

  • Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH): Offered by the American Board of Industrial Hygiene (ABIH), the CIH certification is one of the most recognized and respected certifications for occupational hygienists. To become a CIH, candidates must meet specific educational and experience requirements, pass a comprehensive exam, and adhere to the ABIH's code of ethics.
  • Certified Safety Professional (CSP): While not specific to occupational hygiene, the CSP certification, offered by the Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP), covers a broad range of occupational health and safety topics. Many occupational hygienists may also pursue this certification to demonstrate their proficiency in overall workplace safety.
  • Certified Hazardous Materials Manager (CHMM): The Institute of Hazardous Materials Management (IHMM) offers the CHMM certification for professionals involved in managing hazardous materials and hazardous waste. Occupational hygienists working in industries dealing with hazardous substances might find this certification relevant to their work.
  • Registered Occupational Hygienist (ROH): This certification is provided by the American Board of Industrial Hygiene in Canada (ABIH Canada). While not specific to the US, it may be relevant for individuals seeking recognition as occupational hygienists in both countries.