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Career
Profiles - Mary McLaughlin
- What do you do?
I am an Industrial Hygienist (IH) at
GE.
- Describe your field.
I investigate the workplace for biological,
chemical, or physical hazards and try
to find out what caused them and how
to safely remove them. I make recommendations
on improving the safety and health of
the workers and their communities. I
conduct scientific research on possibly
harmful conditions in the workplace
and then develop techniques to anticipate
and control potentially dangerous situations.
I help train and educate the community
about job-related risks and make sure
that the workers follow health and safety
procedures. I also advise government
officials and participate in the development
of regulations that ensure the workers
and their families are kept safe
- How did you become interested
in this field?
I first became interested in college
when I took a careers course in the
medical/health and tech fields to determine
my strengths and goals.
- How much education did you need
and what degrees?
It took me four and a half years to
get my major in environmental health.
I received Core training and then took
a 7-8 hour exam. After one year of experience
or a Master's degree, an IH can take
this exam. After five years of experience
or with a Master's degree and three
years of experience an IH can take the
second exam.
- What were your favorite school
subjects and activities?
I was strong in science and math, especially
chemistry, physics, anatomy and physiology.
- What do you do at work every day?
Generally, it is following up on chemicals
coming into the facility, making sure
that we have the least toxic materials
to get the job done, whether it's a
paint or cleaner. Assisting the company
with implementing Safety and Healthy
programs in the facility. Helping employees
understand the hazards and working to
eliminate those hazards.
- How do you balance a family and
a career?
My husband is a great help. He is a
teacher and is generally home before
me, so he starts dinner and helps with
the house cleaning and laundry.
- What's the coolest thing about
your job?
I like to investigate, find the answer
to the puzzle, and develop the solution.
- For more information on Industrial
Hygiene, contact:
American Industrial Hygiene Association
2700 Prosperity Ave., Suite 250
Fairfax, VA 22031
P: (703) 849-8888; Fax: (703) 207-3561
You can also visit the AIHA at www.aiha.org
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