Occupational Hygiene

Chemical workplace factors are, according to the authorities, the cause of 700 to 800 deaths in Norway each year. Knowledge is therefore essential for mapping and preventing exposure.

The course provides a thorough introduction to the assessment of chemical workplace factors, as well as measures to reduce exposure.

The contents of the course are in particular relevant to UN's Sustainable Development Goals SDG 3 about om Good health and well-being (target 3.9: By 2030 substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination) and SDG 8: Decent work and economic growth (target 8.8 promote safe and secure working environment for all workers).

The course builds upon general knowledge of working environment conditions as taught in TIØ4186 Occupational health and safety, but provides a deeper understanding of why chemicals act as they do once they enter the human body. Selected significant exposures will be examined in greater detail.

Upon completion of the course, the student will be able to:

Knowledge

• Explain principles of key toxicological mechanisms.
• Explain how chemicals affect reproduction in different ways.
• Demonstrate specific knowledge of preventive measures, with particular emphasis on substitution, elimination, administrative procedures, ventilation, and personal protective equipment.
• Integrate chemical use into a holistic approach to preventing harm and ill health for individuals and society.

Skills

• Plan, conduct, and document a chemical workplace assessment with risk evaluation in a satisfactory manner.
• Apply acquired knowledge to provide guidance on strategies for reducing exposure in the workplace.

Lectures, laboratory exercises and a semester project. Parts of the teaching will be conducted as full-day sessions.