Module Objective: Ensure understanding of core principles and practical implementation of modern occupational health and safety management.

 

Module Content: Core knowledge base in principles of modern occupational health and safety practice incorporating occupational medicine, occupational hygiene and toxicology; case and backround for managing health and safety; Integrated approach to health and safety management; Multidisciplinary team working; Health and safety management systems; Continuous quality improvement initiatives and accreditation; Policies, effective organisation, systematic planning, performance measurement, audit and review processes, Principles of ergonomics; Building and working environment factors that influence health and safety; Work related exposures and ill health; Principles of health hazard evaluation, monitoring and control; Hazard identification and evaluation across a range of environments; Relationship between occupational, environmental and public health; Work related health promotion; Rehabilitation and workplace adjustments.

 

Learning Outcomes: 

On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:

• Describe the scope and relevance of the types of occupational ill health in the workplace and an understanding of the different types of occupational ill health.
• Understand the mechanisms of prevention and management of Occupational Health and Safety issues in the workplace and relate these to the design of occupational health and safety programmes.
• Distinguish the various disciplines and agencies providing occupational health care and show an understanding of occupational health issues in the modern work environment from a multidisciplinary perspective.
• Describe the principles of ill health prevention, health promotion and rehabilitation in the workplace and explain how these interact.
• Describe health surveillance in the workplace and explain when it is appropriate to implement health surveillance programs.
• Perform a needs assessment relating to occupational health service provision.
• Demonstrate critical appraisal skills including analysis of current literature and development of research based activities in Occupational Health and Safety.
• Practice self directed learning, reflective practice and critical thinking about Occupational Health and Safety issues.
• Critically contribute to group discussions on occupational health and safety issues of national, organisational or individual importance.