The European Platform for Occupational Hygienists (EPOH) has unveiled a new competency framework. It is designed to harmonise the skills, knowledge and professional standards expected of occupational hygienists across Europe. This National Occupational Framework supports consistent professional expectations.
Developed in collaboration with national occupational hygiene associations. The framework aims to improve consistency between countries. It supports professional mobility and enhances recognition of occupational hygiene qualifications throughout Europe.
It is intended to provide employers, regulators and professionals with greater confidence that occupational hygiene assessments are being undertaken by suitably qualified experts.
According to EPOH, increasing internationalisation and economic integration have transformed the occupational health and safety landscape. As cross-border supply chains and workplace practices evolve, alignment in professional standards has become more important. The National Occupational Framework guides this alignment across national boundaries.
Occupational hygiene plays a critical role in anticipating and recognising workplace exposures.
EPOH believes a shared competency framework will strengthen transparency and improve the comparability of qualifications.
It will also support the continued professionalisation of the discipline throughout Europe.
The framework adopts a competency-based approach.
In addition, it outlines minimum expectations for practitioners at three distinct levels.
- Technician
- Specialist
- Senior Specialist
As a next step, EPOH will explore the feasibility of introducing a European certification system based on the framework. Additionally, National occupational hygiene associations and professional bodies are encouraged to adapt and implement the framework within their own jurisdictions.
The framework can be downloaded here: https://tinyurl.com/2t6w3deh
