Workplace safety goes far beyond visible hazards like heavy machinery or slick floors. Good Industrial Hygiene can alleviate some of the most serious threats to worker health which could be silent, invisible, and often overlooked.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, private industry employers reported 2.8 million nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses in 2022—a 7.5% increase from the previous year. Many of these incidents are tied to exposure-related risks that can be prevented with the right strategy.
Let’s explore how industrial hygiene protects your team, your operations, and your bottom line—and how to put best practices in place today.
What Is Industrial Hygiene?
Industrial hygiene is the science of identifying, evaluating, and controlling environmental stressors in the workplace. These stressors—whether chemical, physical, biological, or ergonomic—can cause illness, injury, or significant discomfort if left unaddressed.
At its core, industrial hygiene is about anticipation and prevention. It’s the process of recognizing invisible threats before they turn into costly problems.
Common Hazards Industrial Hygiene Can Address
You may not see them, but they’re there—lingering in the air, buried in old materials, or baked into processes your team uses every day.
1. Airborne Contaminants
- Examples: Dust, vapors, fumes, mists, and gases
- Impact: Chronic respiratory issues, allergic reactions, long-term health risks
- Solution: Personal air sampling and continuous indoor air quality monitoring
2. Chemical Exposures
- Examples: Solvents, pesticides, heavy metals, cleaning agents
- Impact: Skin irritation, neurological disorders, cancer with long-term exposure
- Solution: Proper PPE, ventilation upgrades, and routine exposure assessments
3. Biological Hazards
- Examples: Mold, bacteria, viruses, contaminated water sources
- Impact: Infections, respiratory issues, sick building syndrome
- Solution: Moisture control, filtration systems, and microbial testing
4. Noise and Vibration
- Examples: Loud equipment, prolonged machinery use
- Impact: Hearing loss, fatigue, reduced concentration
- Solution: Noise dosimetry studies, ear protection policies, sound barriers
5. Ergonomic Stressors
- Examples: Repetitive motions, poor workstation setup
- Impact: Musculoskeletal injuries, long-term discomfort
- Solution: Ergonomic assessments and workstation adjustments
The Role of Environmental Solutions in Industrial Hygiene
Solving these issues isn’t a one-size-fits-all process. That’s why Ensolum delivers environmental solutions that are tailored to your industry, building, and team.
We take a holistic approach:
- Assessment: Our industrial hygienists conduct thorough evaluations using advanced monitoring tools and sampling methods.
- Analysis: We interpret the data to identify exposure risks and regulatory gaps.
- Action Plans: You receive customized recommendations—clear, measurable, and compliant with OSHA and industry standards.
- Ongoing Support: We help you implement controls, train staff, and track progress over time.
Why It Matters—Beyond Compliance
Yes, OSHA compliance is important. But investing in industrial hygiene is also good business.
Companies with strong hygiene programs see:
- Lower absenteeism
- Higher productivity
- Fewer workers’ compensation claims
- Greater employee satisfaction
When employees know their health is protected, they show up stronger, safer, and more focused. And that’s a win for everyone.
Partner with Experts Who Understand the Stakes
At Ensolum, we provide science-backed environmental solutions that help organizations protect people and performance. Our industrial hygiene services are grounded in real-world application—backed by data, tailored to your operations, and delivered with clarity.
Whether you’re managing an office, construction site, manufacturing facility, or school district, we’ll meet you where you are—and elevate your approach to workplace health and safety.
Ready to take the next step?
Contact Ensolum today to schedule a consultation with our industrial hygiene team. Let’s build a healthier workplace—together.
