According to the International Labour Organisation (ILO), work-related accidents and illnesses make up at least two million deaths and an estimated $1.25 trillion worth of global costs every year. These statistics alone are alarming, so the government is taking action to promote safety more effectively in the workplace. From the use of equipment to the presence of airborne contaminants, employers have to follow strict regulations to make sure that everyone is safe from risks that could cause severe injury or even death.

1. The Importance of Occupational Hygiene in the Workplace
According to the International Labour Organisation (ILO), work-related accidents and illnesses make up at least two million deaths and an estimated $1.25 trillion worth of global costs every year. These statistics alone are alarming, so the government is taking action to promote safety more effectively in the workplace. From the use of equipment to the presence of airborne contaminants, employers have to follow strict regulations to make sure that everyone is safe from risks that could cause severe injury or even death.

2. Under the workplace health and safety legislation, risk management assessments should only take place in the presence of an occupational hygienist. These individuals went through training, obtained qualifications and experience, and have the necessary knowledge to perform such a task.
An occupational hygienist is responsible for identifying workplace hazards and providing advice on how to handle them. Business owners usually hire them through strategic safety and consulting companies to perform surveys regarding workplace noise, air quality and ventilation, asbestos, lead, and many more.
What Is Occupational Hygiene?
The International Occupational Hygiene Association (IOHA) defines occupational hygiene as the discipline of anticipating, controlling, evaluating, and recognising health hazards in the workplace. This is to protect the health and well-being of every worker, which includes the environment they’re in.

3. Sources:
http://www.hseaustralia.com.au/occupational-hygiene
http://www.ohlearning.com/about-occupational-hygiene/what-is-oh.aspx
http://www.ssaohs.com.au/safety-consulting-companies
OHLearning.com notes that promoting good occupational hygiene could benefit both workers and their industry. Here’s how:
 By improving the health of workers, their life expectancy increases.
 By promoting efficient working processes, the business’s productivity will increase.
 Workers who have to retire and stop working due to injury or illness will be fewer.
 Workers who are always healthy can maximise their potential and reduce their social and healthcare expenses.
Why Is Occupational Hygiene Important?
The workplace should be among the safest areas for everyone. By promoting good occupational hygiene, employers can be sure that workers can do their tasks without worries.