Do you or your global colleagues need training on the core aspects of occupational hygiene?
Want to earn an international certificate for technicians/technologists that demonstrates technical knowledge and practical skills?
Take a few moments to read this quick guide on OHTA!
Mission and methods
Training modules and course delivery options
Qualifications Framework and International Certificate
OHTA is pleased that the 2021 release of our Global Link newsletter has brought many new subscribers to our email distribution list. So, with this edition, we want to provide our readers a concise summary of who we are and what we do. We welcome newcomers getting a first impression of OHTA and we invite others to take a second look. You may be surprised to learn all that OHTA has to offer.
OHTA MISSION AND METHODS
As a non-profit organization focused on training, the overall mission of OHTA is to improve the health of workers around the world one course at a time. So how do we accomplish that goal?
1. Training materials
High quality, peer-reviewed training materials developed by knowledgeable and experienced occupational hygiene professionals are available as a free download in several languages and can be used for self-study or internal company use.
2. Training courses
OHTA courses are offered in several formats:
Anytime online - self-directed, asynchronous, independent study courses
OHTA courses are also provided by Approved Training Providers (ATPs) for those trainees seeking more in-depth study or those pursuing the International Certificate in Occupational Hygiene (ICertOH). ATPs have at least one professionally qualified occupational hygienist holding a qualification recognized by IOHA and have a proven track record of providing consistent, high-quality training. Depending on the status of COVID restrictions, courses may be done by ATPs as:
Live online - synchronous study with attendance at set times via the internet e.g., webinar
Live - in-person study at a set time and place
Hybrid - a blend of study defined on a course-by-course basis
OHTA courses are offered by ATPs in many underserved areas. Be advised, however, that OHTA ATPs also offer training courses in countries such as the US, UK, Australia, and Canada. See more on OHTA Courses and Approved Training Providers below.
3. Qualifications Framework
OHTA has a qualifications framework targeted to the technician/technologist level that may lead to the ICertOH international certificate in occupational hygiene.
For some, the ICertOH certificate is an impressive credential for an ultimate career at the technician/technologist level. For others, OHTA training and ICertOH certificate is a steppingstone to more academic training and a career as a professional level occupational hygienist.
OHTA TRAINING MODULES
OHTA offers training modules at four different levels targeted to the unique needs of individuals in various job functions seeking knowledge about occupational hygiene.
Awareness Level
Training is targeted to those who will not have primary responsibility for occupational hygiene programs but will be involved in their implementation.
OHTA Courses
A list of training options at the Awareness level can be found on the OHTA website. Of particular note is a new on-line Awareness Level course that was developed in partnership with the Phylmar Academy, a division of the Phylmar Group. This course provides fundamental knowledge on hazard recognition and control measures that can be utilized to create a healthy work environment. Topics include chemical and physical hazards, ergonomics, bloodborne pathogens, personal protective equipment, fire prevention, and more.
The Awareness course offered on-line by OHTA is self-directed, independent study and takes less than 3 hours to complete. It is available to individuals for a modest fee of $50 USD.
Workplace Health Without Borders (WHWB), an OHTA Approved Training Provider, also offers the OHTA Awareness Level course in some countries in an alternative format with both independent study and live on-line discussions in the local language. Contact training@whwb.org for more info.
Foundation Level
Training is targeted to individuals such as occupational medicine personnel, safety representatives, and other industry specialists who need to have a basic understanding of occupational hygiene principles. The course will help them recognize potential problems so they can call for assistance from a professional occupational hygienist when needed.
OHTA Courses
The OHTA W201 training module includes a study of the Basic Principles in Occupational Hygiene including recognition, evaluation, and control of chemical, physical, and biological hazards.
Search the database of OHTA training providers to find those that teach the W201 course in your area. Those trainees that successfully pass the course receive a Certificate of Successful Course Completion.
Intermediate Level - The heart of the OHTA training program
Training at this level is targeted to individuals who will work as occupational hygiene technicians/technologists. As such, the course work is focused on technical knowledge and practical skills with hands-on training using various instrumentation.
OHTA Courses
There are seven modules at the intermediate level (W500 series) taught as 5-day courses.
Core Subjects
W501 Measurement of Hazardous Substances
W503 Noise-Measurement and its Effects
W505 Control of Hazardous Substances
W507 Health Effects of Hazardous Substances
Optional Subjects
W502 Thermal Environment
W504 Asbestos and Other Fibers
W506 Ergonomics Essentials
Students can work towards the ICertOH certificate by successfully completing six modules: four core subjects and two others chosen from the three optional subjects.
Search the database of OHTA training providers to find trainers that teach these intermediate level courses in your area. Prices for the course are set by the training provider in local currency.
Specialist level
This training is designed for those seeking specialized training for specific industries.
OHTA Courses
At the current time, OHTA Approved Training Providers offer Course A1001 designed for occupational hygiene in Mining and Mineral Processing Industries. Other Specialist modules are in development.
QUALIFICATIONS FRAMEWORK AND ICertOH INTERNATIONAL CERTIFICATE
The ICertOH demonstrates technical knowledge and practical skills in identifying health hazards, assessing exposures, and testing control measures. It is suitable for technicians/technologists who carry out measurements and testing in workplaces. The qualification has been designed so that it can be recognized by national associations as contributing to their own requirements for accreditation.
To qualify for the ICertOH, trainees must attend classes provided by OHTA ATPs and pass exams delivered by examining bodies. The British Occupational Hygiene Association (BOHS) is the examining body for all W modules including those that are required for ICertOH qualification. Other organizations including Workplace Health Without Borders (WHWB), AIHA, and the Southern African Institute for Occupational Hygiene (SAIOH), are authorized to act as examiners for the W201 foundation level modules.
Once you have completed six modules, you can progress to the award by completing a Personal Learning Profile and applying for your intermediate level interview.
