Industrial Hygiene & Workplace Exposure Assessments
Western Health & Safety provides CIH-led industrial hygiene services in Calgary and across Alberta and British Columbia. Industrial hygiene focuses on identifying, evaluating, and controlling workplace exposures including asbestos, airborne contaminants, noise, and chemical hazards.
Our approach goes beyond testing by assessing exposure pathways and worker risk to support informed decision-making for renovation, demolition, and industrial operations.
Our approach goes beyond testing by assessing exposure pathways and worker risk to support informed decision-making for renovation, demolition, and industrial operations.
What Is Industrial Hygiene?
Industrial hygiene — also referred to as occupational hygiene — involves assessing risks related to:
- Airborne contaminants (dusts, vapours, fumes)
- Noise exposure and hearing loss
- Biological hazards (mould, bacteria)
- Chemical exposure (solvents, gases)
- Heat stress and physical hazards
Our Industrial Hygiene Services
Air Sampling & Contaminant Monitoring
- Full-shift personal and area sampling
- Gravimetric, real-time, and lab-based analysis
- Targeting silica, welding fumes, solvents, BTEX and more
Noise Exposure Assessments
- Personal dosimetry and area sound mapping
- TWA calculations and peak/impulse capture
- Full OH&S compliance reporting
Mould & IAQ Testing
- Indoor air quality assessments for offices, schools, and commercial sites
- Fungal sampling (air, tape lift, swab) and lab analysis
- Clear remediation guidance
Heat Stress Monitoring
- Real-time WBGT measurement
- Control recommendations for physical work in hot environments
Related Occupational Hygiene Services
Supporting and Industrial Hygiene Controls
Personal protective equipment (PPE) and fit testing are often part of broader industrial hygiene programs. While not standalone solutions, they support exposure control strategies when hazards such as asbestos, airborne contaminants, or chemical exposures are present.
These controls are typically implemented alongside assessment, monitoring, and engineering measures to reduce worker risk.
These controls are typically implemented alongside assessment, monitoring, and engineering measures to reduce worker risk.
Who We Work With
We serve organizations that require clear, field-ready reports and compliance-focused testing:
- Construction & infrastructure contractors
- Industrial and oilfield operators
- School divisions and government facilities
- Property and facility managers
What You Receive
- Certified reports compliant with OH&S (AB & BC)
- Risk prioritization + control recommendations
- Data to support hazard communication and program documentation
- Fast turnaround and mobile-ready field staff
Related Services
Ready to Protect Your Team?
Speak with our occupational hygienists about your site or exposure concern. WHS delivers practical solutions, detailed reporting, and full regulatory alignment.
Industrial Hygiene FAQs
Click To What is industrial hygiene and why is it important?
Industrial hygiene focuses on identifying, evaluating, and controlling workplace hazards such as airborne contaminants, asbestos, noise, and chemical exposures. It is important because it helps protect worker health, ensures regulatory compliance, and supports informed decision-making on construction, renovation, and industrial projects.
When should an industrial hygiene assessment be completed?
An industrial hygiene assessment is typically required before renovation or demolition, when workers may be exposed to hazardous materials, or when there are concerns about air quality, dust, or chemical exposure. Early assessment helps prevent uncontrolled contamination and ensures proper planning.
What is the difference between industrial hygiene and asbestos testing?
Asbestos testing identifies whether asbestos-containing materials are present, while industrial hygiene evaluates the risk of exposure. A CIH-led industrial hygiene assessment considers how materials may be disturbed, how fibres or contaminants can become airborne, and what controls are required to protect workers.
Do I need industrial hygiene services for small projects?
Even small renovation or maintenance projects can create exposure risks if hazardous materials are present. Industrial hygiene services help determine whether testing, controls, or monitoring are required, ensuring work is completed safely and in compliance with Alberta OHS and WorkSafeBC requirements.
What does a CIH-led industrial hygiene assessment include?
A CIH-led assessment includes hazard identification, exposure evaluation, and practical recommendations for controlling risks. This may involve air sampling, material testing, review of work activities, and interpretation of results to support safe and compliant project execution.
updated April 2026