Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Immunization Programs • Workplace Assessment • Health Surveillance

Industrial Hygiene

Term from Occupational Health industry explained for recruiters

Industrial Hygiene is a field focused on protecting worker health and safety in the workplace. It involves identifying potential workplace hazards (like chemicals, noise, or air quality issues), measuring their impact, and creating solutions to prevent worker illness or injury. Think of Industrial Hygienists as workplace health detectives - they spot problems before they become serious and recommend ways to make the work environment safer. They might also be called Occupational Hygienists or Health and Safety Specialists. This role is essential in manufacturing, construction, healthcare, and any industry where workers might be exposed to health risks.

Examples in Resumes

Conducted Industrial Hygiene assessments for chemical exposure in manufacturing facilities

Led Industrial Hygiene and Occupational Hygiene monitoring programs for noise and air quality

Developed comprehensive Industrial Hygiene sampling strategies for a workforce of 500+ employees

Typical job title: "Industrial Hygienists"

Also try searching for:

Occupational Hygienist Health and Safety Specialist EHS Specialist Industrial Hygiene Engineer Occupational Health Specialist Environmental Health and Safety Professional

Where to Find Industrial Hygienists

Professional Organizations

Job Boards

Professional Networks

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you develop and implement a comprehensive industrial hygiene program for a large manufacturing facility?

Expected Answer: Look for answers that demonstrate experience in creating complete safety programs, including risk assessment, monitoring plans, training programs, and emergency response procedures. They should mention budget management, team leadership, and how to get management buy-in.

Q: Tell me about a complex workplace exposure situation you resolved. What was your approach?

Expected Answer: The candidate should describe a specific example showing their problem-solving abilities, how they identified hazards, measured exposures, and implemented effective controls. They should also mention how they communicated with management and workers.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What methods would you use to evaluate noise exposure in a factory setting?

Expected Answer: They should explain basic noise monitoring equipment, sampling strategies, and understanding of exposure limits. Look for knowledge of both area and personal monitoring approaches, and basic understanding of control measures.

Q: How do you determine what type of respiratory protection is needed for a specific job?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of hazard assessment, exposure levels, types of respirators, and understanding of respiratory protection programs. Should mention fit testing and training requirements.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the main types of workplace hazards that Industrial Hygienists monitor?

Expected Answer: Should be able to list and briefly explain chemical, physical (noise, radiation), biological, and ergonomic hazards. Basic understanding of how these hazards affect worker health.

Q: What personal protective equipment (PPE) would you recommend for handling common chemicals?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate basic knowledge of PPE types (gloves, goggles, respirators) and when each is appropriate. Should mention the importance of checking safety data sheets.