In today’s world of occupational safety and health professionals, it’s increasingly rare to come across a Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH). Becoming a CIH is not only incredibly difficult, it also reflects a deep interest in worker safety and health that isn’t valued by many organizations.
Fortunately, the LHSFNA does see the value of protecting the safety and health of LIUNA members to the highest level possible. And we’re proud that Nate Schreiber recently earned his Certified Industrial Hygienist credential, one of the most respected professional certifications in occupational safety and health.
“Being recognized as a CIH is the culmination of hundreds of hours of studying and over nine years in the field. This is something I’ve aspired to obtain since starting my career.” said Schreiber.
Becoming a CIH is no small feat. Achieving this credential requires a combination of education, professional experience and passing a rigorous exam covering topics such as air sampling, toxicology, statistics and analytical chemistry.
“The Internet or AI tools can tell you what the silica standard says, but a CIH can tell you whether the Laborer in front of you is actually being overexposed, how certain we are of that conclusion and what the most effective control will be given all the variables in that situation,” said Schreiber.
Certified industrial hygienists are experts in Anticipating, Recognizing, Evaluation and Controlling workplace hazards — this framework is known as AREC. Whether this is applied to evaluate heat stress on the body, measure and control noise exposure or address a number of other hazards, this capability is especially important in keeping LIUNA members safe at work.
“To pass the CIH exam, you have to demonstrate an advanced understanding of chemical exposure pathways and how a hazard impacts the human body,” said Schreiber.
The LHSFNA regularly collaborates with government agencies, researchers, industry organizations and standards committees. Maintaining a technically qualified staff ensures the Fund’s ability to participate in and add meaningful insight to discussions and advocate for the best interests of LIUNA members.
Additionally, states such as California, New York, New Jersey, Texas and Florida often mandate CIH reviews for complex indoor air quality investigations, remediation projects and environmental assessments involving mold, asbestos and lead. If a contractor ran into this kind of review requirement without the proper expertise, it could be cost prohibitive to enlist a consultant to do that work. The LHSFNA removes that barrier for LIUNA signatory contractors by providing this service free of charge. That helps signatory contractors win more projects and put LIUNA members to work.
By earning his CIH credential, Schreiber joins a select group of professionals dedicated to advancing the science around protecting worker health. More importantly, the achievement reflects the LHSFNA’s commitment to providing LIUNA members with the highest level of occupational health knowledge and support.
To request assistance from the Fund’s Occupational Safety and Health Division, contact us or visit the Services dashboard on our website for specific services.
[Nick Fox]
