College of Engineering and Computer Studies

Includes bibliographical references and index.

Introduction to the field of occupational health and safety -- Occupational health policy and the regulatory climate -- Epidemiologic and toxicologic aspects of occupational health and safety -- Hazards from chemicals and toxic metals -- Physical hazards in the workplace -- Biological and microbial hazards in the workplace -- Examples of major occupational diseases -- Work-related injuries and fatalities -- Psychosocial aspects of work : job stress and associated conditions -- Occupational safety and the prevention of occupational disease.

This book discusses occupational health and safety, including occupational policies, legislative acts, and laws for protection of workers. Epidemiology and toxicology are examples of two fields that make contributions to exposure assessments and illuminate the adverse health effects associated with work-related exposures. Among the adverse health outcomes that have been linked with the work environment are cancer, respiratory illness, and reproductive abnormalities. Unintentional injuries are one of the leading causes of work-related morbidity and mortality, but the psychological and social environment can also affect the health of workers by influencing levels of stress and morale. Methods have been developed to reduce exposures to hazards and increase occupational safety through redesign of the work environment, introduction of engineering controls, and limiting exposures to physical, microbial, and chemical agents.

College of Engineering and Computer Studies