Is becoming an occupational health specialist right for me?
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How to become an Occupational Health Specialist
High school students interested in becoming occupational health specialists should take courses in english, mathematics, chemistry, biology, and physics. A bachelor’s degree is needed in occupational health, safety, or a related scientific or technical field, such as engineering, biology, or chemistry.
For some positions, a master’s degree is required in industrial hygiene, health physics, or a related subject. Typical courses include radiation science, hazardous material management and control, risk communications, and respiratory protection. These courses may vary, depending on the specialty in which a student wants to work. For example, courses in health physics focus on topics that differ from those in industrial hygiene.
Work experience is often important in this occupation. Internships are not required, but employers often prefer to hire candidates who have been an intern.
Although occupational health specialists learn standard laws and procedures in their formal education, they also need a moderate amount of on-the-job training for specific work environments. For example, all workplaces must meet a certain standard for air quality. However, an occupational health specialist who will inspect offices needs different training than one inspecting factories.
Although certification is voluntary, many employers encourage it. Certification is available through several organizations, depending on the field in which the health specialists work. They typically must have graduated from an accredited educational program and have work experience to be eligible to take most certification exams. To keep their certification, occupational health specialists are usually required to complete periodic continuing education.