FALLS CHURCH, Va. — The American Industrial Hygiene Association, the organization for individuals in the field of occupational and environmental health and safety, is now offering resources to help rail companies support worker health and safety.
The organization has launched a rail-specific section of its Worker Health and Safety website including fact sheets, articles, and journal studies on ways occupational and environmental health and safety, or OEHS, professionals can help mitigate health risks such as heart and lung problems, cancer, emotional stress, and mental illness. These OEHS specialists can evaluate exposures to noise and air contaminants and determine if health risks exist; the site also offers information on how to find a consultant for such evaluations.
CSX Transportation Manager of Industrial Hygene, LaTonya Edwards, is an AIHA member. “Should an employee experience exposure to a hazard in the workplace,” she said in a press release from the organization, “we are available, along with a third-party toxicologist, to assess the exposure and offer fact-based information to emergency response personnel. In most cases, our work helps avoid unnecessary medical testing and procedures. It is essential to let our employees know that the company is working on their behalf to ensure their well-being.”
More information on the AIHA is available at its website.
Ability to make medical appointments with less than 30 days notice, and not subject to cancellation for RR covenience might be a start.