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OHSE6020

Occupational Hygiene & Toxicology

10 Units 6000 Level Course

Available in 2013

WebLearn GradSchool Semester 1

Previously offered in 2012, 2011, 2010, 2009, 2008, 2007, 2006, 2005, 2004

Develops a conceptual framework for toxicology and knowledge and skills relevant to the practice of occupational hygiene in hazard identification, risk assessment and control of the work environment. Topics include:
toxicological terminology; toxico-kinetics and toxico-dynamics; toxicological testing methods; toxicity of specific groups of industrial chemicals; environmental and biological monitoring; setting and using hygiene standards; methods for monitoring environmental pollutants; strategies for the control of environmental pollutants; conducting and reporting on hygiene surveys. This course is offered in distance learning mode only.

Objectives By the end of the course students will be able to:
1. discuss the role of the hygienist in the
assessment and control of the work environment;
2. explain key toxicological terms such as dose, effect, response, toxico-kinetics and toxico-dynamics;
3. demonstrate an awareness of factors influencing toxicity;
4. outline methods of testing for toxicity;
5. outline the toxicity of specific groups of industrial chemicals;
6. compare and contrast the roles of environmental and biological monitoring in workplace assessment;
7. demonstrate an awareness of the factors involved in determining hygiene standards and describe the types and applicability of hygiene standards used in Australia;
8. describe the principles of operation and methods of use of a range of instruments for monitoring environmental pollutants;
9. outline strategies for the control of environmental pollutants.
Content Major topics include:
1. Principles and scope of occupational hygiene;
2. Key terms and concepts in toxicology;
3. Toxico-kinetics, toxico-dynamics and toxicological interactions;
4. Overview of toxciological testing methods;
5. Toxicity of selected solvents, gases, metals and other particulates;
6. Reproductive toxicology;
7. Environmental and biological monitoring;
8. Setting and using hygiene standards for air contaminants;
9. Principles and practice of measuring airborne gases, vapours and particulates;
10. Environmental control - principles of exhaust ventilation;
11. Environmental control - personal protective equipment;
12. Principles and practice of noise assessment and control;
13. The occupational hygiene survey.
Replacing Course(s) n/a
Transition n/a
Industrial Experience 0
Assumed Knowledge Students undertaking this course should have a reasonable grasp of human bioscience. Advice on how to obtain information on human bioscience is provided for the benefit of students from non-biological backgrounds.
Modes of Delivery Distance Learning : IT Based
External Mode
Teaching Methods Self Directed Learning
Assessment Items
Essays / Written Assignments Assignment 1 -(assesses objectives 2,3,4,5,6 &7)
Essays / Written Assignments Assignment 2 - (assesses objectives 1,5,6,7,8,&9)
Examination: Formal End of semester examination (3hr) - (assesses objectives 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,&9)
Contact Hours Self Directed Learning: for 10 hour(s) per Week for Full Term
Timetables 2013 Course Timetables for OHSE6020