The School of Public Health is offering to new “Topics in Environmental Health” courses for the 2015-2016 school year: Introduction to Occupational Hygiene and Nanotechnology Health & Safety.

Fall 2015: PubH 6100-002, Introduction to Occupational Hygiene
1 credit; Mondays 3:35-5:30 pm (2nd half of semester)

Occupational hygiene – also called industrial hygiene – is the science and practice of anticipating, recognizing, evaluating, and controlling hazards arising in or from the workplace that could impair the health and well-being of workers, surrounding communities, and the ambient environment. People working in many disciplines would benefit from a better understanding of the fundamentals of occupational hygiene. This course will introduce students to the basic concepts of occupational hygiene and risk assessment, and to how regulations and guidelines are established to protect workers. Special attention will be paid to risks posed by workplace exposures to airborne particles.

Spring 2016: PubH 6100-001, Nanotechnology Health & Safety
3 credits; Thursdays 1:25-3:20 pm; prerequisite PubH 6100-002 or PubH 6103

Nanotechnology involves the measurement, manipulation, and incorporation of materials and features with at least one dimension between 1 and 100 nm. Research indicates that exposures to nanomaterials present unique health risks not encountered with their parent materials. After completing this course, students will understand how fundamental concepts and methods of occupational hygiene are applied to nanotechnology. Students will learn to use aerosol science, health effects information, exposure data, and product lifecycle analysis to evaluate risks to workers and the public from nanomaterial exposures and to guide intervention efforts. Emphasis will be placed on risk management measures appropriate for nanomaterials.

Please contact associate professor Pete Raynor for more information at praynor@umn.edu

~ Post by Khosi Nkosi