Bachelor of Health Sciences in Occupational Hygiene at University of Northwest

Occupational hygienists can provide advice on control strategies including hazard elimination, engineering modifications, administrative controls, and finally personal protective equipment.

Admission Requirement

Mathematics level 5

Physical Science at level 5

Academic paper selection; Best average mark

Applications close 30 June

Late applications will be considered on merit

DURATION: 4 years

Career Opportunities

Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)

SASOL

City council

Mining companies (Anglo American, BHP Billiton, Impala Platinum, etc)

ESKOM

National Institute for Occupational Health (NIOH)

Department of Labour (DoL)

Occupational hygiene consultants and Approved Inspection Authorities Great demand internationally for qualified occupational hygienists.

What are the basic principles of occupational hygiene?

It is a 5-day programme that provides a basic introduction to the anticipation, recognition, evaluation and control of risks to health in the workplace. It will introduce you to chemical exposures, noise, the thermal environment, lighting, radiation, ergonomics, behavioural science and much more.

What is the focus of occupational hygiene?

‘Occupational Hygiene is the discipline of anticipating, recognising, evaluating and controlling health hazards in the working environment with the objective of protecting worker health and well-being and safeguarding the community at large. 

What are the components of occupational hygiene?

Components of occupational hygiene are identification, evaluation and control of workplace health hazards. Identification of potential health hazards is the first step in a prevention programme. Labels, MSDSs and walk-through inspections form the basis of a hazard identification programme.

How much do occupational hygienists earn in South Africa?

R440,076 (ZAR)/yr.