What Is A Certified Industrial Hygienist?

A better term for someone who is an industrial hygienist might be Environmental Health Assessor.

Industrial hygiene is the science of protecting and enhancing the health and safety of people at work and in their communities. Health and safety hazards cover a wide range of chemical, physical, biological and ergonomic stressors. Those dedicated to anticipating, recognizing, evaluating and controlling those hazards are known as Industrial Hygienists. They are professionals dedicated to the well-being of people – at work, at home and in the community (Source: American Board of Industrial Hygienists - ABIH).

A certified industrial hygienist (CIH) is an individual who has formally demonstrated competency in the field of industrial hygiene by meeting specific educational and experience requirements and completing a comprehensive examination. The educational requirements include an undergraduate degree in the hard sciences (chemistry, biology, physics or engineering) with 180 hours in specific industrial hygiene classes which must include specific technical areas, educational credits in ethics and at least four years of professional experience performing industrial hygiene work. The examination pass rate is typically under 40% for those who are eligible to sit for the exam. As with most certifications, continued education and field experiences are needed to maintain qualification. It is the gold standard in certification for those performing these types of projects. Many individuals claim to be industrial hygienists, but many are not CIH's. For the best outcomes assure that a CIH is involved in overseeing or performing your projects.

Check out ABIH's Video -- WHAT IS A CIH?