Safety on the job is no accident;
occupational health and safety specialists
and technicians keep workplaces
as accident-free as possible,
by looking for safer, healthier,
and more efficient work practices.
Occupational health and safety specialists
inspect workplaces to ensure they meet safety
and environmental regulations.
They examine factors such as lighting,
ventilation, and whether materials are stored
or disposed of correctly.
Occupational health and safety technicians
work with specialists
to conduct tests and measure hazards.
They may perform checks to make sure
workers are using required protective gear,
such as masks and hardhats.
After a workplace accident or injury occurs,
occupational health and safety specialists
and technicians investigate potential causes
and plan how to prevent future events.
They may develop training programs
to correct risky conditions,
and coordinate rehabilitation
for injured employees.
Occupational health and safety specialists
and technicians generally work full time,
and travel from their offices or factories
to conduct fieldwork.
They use gloves, respirators, and other gear
to minimize exposure to hazards.
In emergencies,
they work weekends and irregular hours.
Occupational health and safety specialists
typically need a bachelor’s degree
in occupational health and safety
or a related field,
while technicians typically enter the field
through on-the-job training,
or a related associate’s degree or certificate.