OSHA #511 Occupational Safety and Health Standards for General Industry course

What does industrial hygiene primarily focus on?

1. Decreasing workplace accidents through training

2. Anticipating, recognizing, evaluating, and controlling workplace conditions that may cause injury or illness

3. Ensuring all employees use personal protective equipment

4. Monitoring worker productivity and efficiency

The correct answer is: Anticipating, recognizing, evaluating, and controlling workplace conditions that may cause injury or illness

Industrial hygiene primarily focuses on the systematic process of anticipating, recognizing, evaluating, and controlling workplace conditions that may cause injury or illness. This field encompasses a broad range of activities directed at identifying potential health hazards in the workplace, assessing the exposure levels of workers to these hazards, and implementing appropriate controls to mitigate risks. By focusing on these key functions, industrial hygiene plays a crucial role in protecting the health and safety of employees and promoting a safer work environment. While training to decrease workplace accidents, ensuring the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and monitoring productivity are all important aspects of overall workplace safety, they fall under broader occupational health and safety practices. The core function of industrial hygiene is distinct in its focus on identifying and controlling environmental factors that could adversely affect worker health.