To diminish the spread of COVID-19, the federal government and states across the nation have issued guidance and executive orders limiting which businesses may continue operating, and which workers may continue working during the pandemic, by defining some workers and businesses as part of the “Essential Critical Infrastructure Workforce.” While industrial hygienists are likely included in these orders and guidance, as they protect the health and safety of workers, their families, and communities, it’s not always clear if they do—and violating the policies may result in steep fines or even jail time. The resulting ambiguity could have the unintended consequence of reducing workplace health and safety at a time when the nation is intensely focused on protecting the health of workers and the public.

In response to the need for greater clarity and enhanced attention on industrial hygiene, AIHA is working with the federal government and states, urging them to update their guidance and executive orders, or issue statements specifying that industrial hygienists may continue their work to protect workers and their communities during this pandemic.

Based upon the feedback AIHA has received from policymakers, much of the ambiguity in the orders and guidance stems from a lack of awareness of industrial hygiene and the roles that IHs play in society. Accordingly, AIHA has directed policymakers to the association’s award-winning campaigns that have raised awareness of industrial hygiene by showcasing the voices and stories of our members. Our activities to educate policymakers about the roles that IHs play and why they should be clearly included as part of the essential workforce continue. However, work remains to be done, and we need your help now, perhaps more than ever.

Are you interested in working on this project? One of the best ways you can help right now is to send me a statement or testimonial that describes what would happen if you were unable to continue working during the COVID-19 crisis because your profession was inadvertently excluded in executive orders and related guidance. If you’d like to help, please contact me.