OHSE2640 - Hygiene and Toxicology I*

Description

Develops a conceptual framework for toxicology and knowledge and skills relevant to the practice of occupational and environmental hygiene in hazard identification, risk assessment and control of the environment. Topics include: toxicological terminology; toxico-kinetics and toxico-dynamics; toxicological testing methods; toxicity of specify groups of industrial chemicals; environmental and biological monitoring; setting and using hygiene standards; methods for monitoring environmental pollutants, including noise; strategies for the control of environmental pollutants; and reporting on hygiene surveys.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion 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 and environmental hygiene;
2. Key terms and concepts in toxicology;
3. Toxico-kinetics, toxico-dynamics and toxicological interactions;
4. Overview of toxicological 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.

Requisite

Pre-requisite - successful completion of OHSE2630 and ENVS2620

Assessment Items

Written Assignment: Written Assignment

In Term Test: Occupational Hygiene Test

In Term Test: Toxicology Test

Final Examination: Written Formal Examination

Contact Hours

Face to Face on Campus 40 hour(s) per Term Full Term

*Pre-requisite course required