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Occupational Safety and Health
Bachelor of Science
Course Details
CAO Code | AU856 |
---|---|
Level | 7 |
Duration | 3 Years |
CAO Points | 246 (2024) |
Method of Delivery | On-campus |
Campus Locations | Sligo |
Mode of Delivery | Full Time |
Course Overview
This programme gives students the knowledge and skills to protect workers from injuries and fatalities, prevent illness caused by work, promote health and wellbeing, and advise employers on health and safety law. Students also learn how to prepare, implement and monitor safety management systems in the workplace.
Overview
This honours degree engages students in a dynamic and innovative way from Year 1 through to Year 4. Students learn how to effectively work with people by working within groups and teams to solve real workplace safety and health issues. The degree gives a blend of theoretical and practical learning through lectures, laboratory based monitoring, site visits, case studies, enquiry based learning and work placement.
This degree is essentially applied science rather than the science students may know from secondary school. Occupational safety and health in the workplace covers areas such as chemical safety, occupational health, exposure to noise, dust and gases.
The degree provides students with the knowledge and skills to put environmental, health and safety management systems in place in the workplace. This, combined with the fact that our graduates will also be qualified to act as trainers, makes them highly sought after by employers. Students are qualified manual handling trainers and visual display unit assessors when they graduate.
This is the longest running Occupational Safety and Health honours degree programme in the country, and our graduates are employed across all sectors. This includes everything from manufacturing to construction and retail to public bodies. Our graduates are qualified to act as a health and safety or environmental health and safety manager in any workplace.
Year 1
Students study the biological and chemical sciences that underpin occupational safety and health and develop a range of communication and IT skills.
Year 2
Students study important safety and environmental topics, including safety law, manual handling instruction training, construction technology, occupational safety and health, biological health hazards and environmental water quality.
Year 3
In Year 3, there is a focus on applying the knowledge and skills students have developed on the programme during the previous two years. Modules include Construction Safety and Contractor Management, Management of Hazardous Materials, Occupational Hygiene, Occupational Health and Health Promotion, Safety and Health Legislation, and Environmental Topics.
Common Entry
Environmental Science with Ecology
Occupational Safety and Health
Biomedical Science
Pharmaceutical Science with Drug Development
Professional Accreditation
This degree is accredited by the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH), the only chartered body for health and safety practitioners and the world’s largest health and safety professional membership organisation. This qualifies students to take up a career as a Health and Safety Advisor or Manager in any type of industry, anywhere in the world.
Course Details
Year 1
Semester | Module Details | Credits | Mandatory / Elective |
---|---|---|---|
1 |
Introductory BiologyThe module will enable students to understand the essential and relevant principles in Biology which will act as a basic foundation for later module. Learning Outcomes 1. Describe and apply various basic concepts of introductory biology. |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Mathematics for Science 1In this module, the fundamentals of mathematics required for a Science qualification are covered. All effort in this semester is focused on the student's need to understand and practice basic mathematical processes and their application to real life and science. Students are supported in their efforts by a comprehensive VLE site containing videos, notes and quizzes relevant to each topic. There are supervised tutorials twice a week to help solve the problems encountered in the module. Learning Outcomes 1. Perform calculations involving basic operations without a calculator. 2. Use powers and scientific notationto express values and evaluate expressions. 3. Perform unit conversions and simple pharmaceutical calculations 4. Manipulate and solve mathematical expressions correctly. 5. Plot and analyse linear, quadraticand simultaneous equations. |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Information Technology 1This module deals with the practical applications of Information Technology. It serves as an introduction to the computer systems the student will use while taking their chosen course in the college. It also covers the fundamental skills of word processing, presentation and spreadsheet software. The teaching methods used will be a combination of lectures, self-study, labs, tutorials, problem-solving exercises and computer-based learning. Learning Outcomes 1. Use the IT infrastructureand Virtual Learning Environment to perform standard IT tasks to assist in their future studies 2. Identify the main component parts and peripheral devices of a standard computer system. |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Occupational Safety and Health Enquiry Based Learning 1The theme of this Enquiry Based Learning module is Discovering Occupational Safety and Health. This module introduces the student to independent and group learning activities essential for the Occupational Safety and Health professional. It will also show the link between foundation science subjects and the OSH professional. Learning Outcomes 1. Communicate in a variety of formats to a variety of audiences. |
10 | Mandatory |
1 |
Chemistry and Chemical Hazards 1This module introduces students to the fundamental laws and principles of elementary chemistry needed for an understanding of chemical hazards. Learning Outcomes 1. Outline the basic concepts of introductory principles of chemistry and the main features of the Periodic Table. 2. Summarize the basic composition of matter, atoms and atomic theory, and the various types of bonding. 3. Solve problems related to the core chemical concepts such as moles, molarity, pH and solution preparation and discuss chemical reactions in aqueous solutions, concept of acids and bases. 4. Show the use of Safety Data Sheets and evaluate the hazards associated with chemicals. 5. |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Occupational Safety and Health Enquiry Based Learning 2The theme of this Enquiry Based Learning Module is The Science of OSH. The aim of this module are to provide an opportunity for students to explore the basic sciences and employ their relevance to the principles for securing safety and health in the workplace. Learning Outcomes 1. Identify their learning needs and develop efficent self directed study skills 2. Communicate the basic principles for securing safety and health in the workplace. 3. Relate basic principles of biology, chemistry, physics and maths to workplace hazards. 4. Identify concepts that are cross disciplinary. 5. Participate in and contribute to team based activities. |
10 | Mandatory |
2 |
Mathematics for Science 2This module introduces the functions which occur most commonly in science and ways of examining their behaviour. The primary focus is to understand where these functions occur, both in real life and science, and to provide students with the ability to recognise and analyse them appropriately. The module also introduces statistical methods and analysis. Learning Outcomes 1. Analyse and sketch polynomial functions of a linear, quadratic and cubic nature. Discuss real world applications of these functions 2. Analyse and sketchfunctions of a sinusoidal and rational nature. Discuss real world applications of these functions 3. Analyse and sketchfunctions of alogarithmic and exponentialnature. Discuss real world applications of these functions 4. Use differential Calculus toanalyse max/min curves and solve optimisation problems. 5. Identify different types of data and use appropriate tables and curves to analyse data sets. |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Biological ScienceThis module deals with selected aspects of mammalian biology that are relevant to Occupational Safety and Health. It forms a foundation for future modules including microbiology and occupational health and safety. Learning Outcomes 1. Describe the basic concepts of somerelevantmammalianbiology & systems 2. Perform a range of experiments accurately and safely. 3. Source , select and record scientific data individually and in teams. 4. Communicate scientific information effectively both orally and in writing. 5. Demonstrate time management and organisational skills. |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
PhysicsThis is a Physics module relevant to Occupational Safety and Health. The principle topics include mechanics, light and sound, nuclear physics and electricity and consist of lab investigations in these areas. Learning Outcomes 1. Explain physical laws and definitions of mechanics, light, sound, nuclear physics and electricity. |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Chemistry and Chemical Hazards 2This module introduces students to the fundamentals of physical and organic chemistry needed for an understanding of chemical hazards. Learning Outcomes 1. Discuss and explain core concepts in physical and organicchemistry 2. Relate the physical and chemical properties of organic molecules to their chemical structures. |
05 | Mandatory |
Year 2
Semester | Module Details | Credits | Mandatory / Elective |
---|---|---|---|
1 |
Hazard and Risk ControlThis module addresses theoretical and practical aspects of controlling occupational loss in the workplace. Learning Outcomes 1. Appraise workplace injury, illness & fatality statistics to extrapolate the cost of occupational loss. 2. Define and differentiate between key terminology applicable to the subject area. 3. Explain the nature of risk and the concept of risk assessment. |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Electricity, Machinery and Fire SafetyThis module looks at the areas of Machinery Safety, Fire Safety and Emergency planning and Electrical safety in the workplace. Students will be given basic scientific principles where applicable and will discuss the hazards associated with each. Learning Outcomes 1. Examine the basic scientific principles that underline fire and electrical safety in the workplace |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Occupational Safety And Health Enquiry Based Learning 3The theme of this Enquiry Based Learning module is Occupational Safety and Health in the workplace. The aim of this module is to provide an opportunity for students to work in groups to integrate and apply the knowledge associated with the programme outcomes to workplace situations. Learning Outcomes 1. Identify knowledge gaps and source and undertake self-learning to fill the gaps while participating effectively in a structured team environment. 2. Discussthe implications and requirements of OSH legislation and regulatory frameworks. 3. Communicate information in a range of formats to a variety of audiences. |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Environmental Water QualityThe module will enable students to evaluate and appraise key issues relating to water quality and the importance of its protection. Anthropogenic activities can create point and diffuse sources of water pollution, which have associated adverse impacts on the environment and human health. The protection of water quality through the application of established mitigation measures and relevant legislation will be discussed. The module introduces students to water analysis. Learning Outcomes 1. Demonstrate an understanding ofthe importance of the protection and maintenance of satisfactory quality in freshwater bodies. 2. Explain the main categories of water pollution sources related tohuman activities. 3. Outlinethe adverse impacts of water pollution on the environment and human health. 4. Outlinecommon mitigation measures and relevant legislation for the control of water pollution in the industrial, constructionand agricultural sector. 5. Demonstrate an ability to perform (safely and competently), interpret and report on a range of environmental analytical techniques on water samples. |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Occupational Hygiene Physical AgentsThis is an introductory unit to the occupational hygiene area with the aim of equipping students with theoretical and practical knowledge of various occupational hygiene theory and techniques. The topics covered include the basis of occupational hygiene hazards in the work environment; occupational health; workplace exposure standards; sources of information as related to the physical hazards in the work environment; noise and vibration; lighting; thermal environment and pressure; radiation (ionising and non-ionising); controls for workplace health hazards. Learning Outcomes 1. Identify, describe and apply the fundamental scientific concepts and principles ofoccupational hygiene, occupational hygiene hazard classification and recognitionand workplace exposure standards. 3. Explain and evaluate systematic approaches to assessing and controlling physical occupational hygiene hazards in the workplace. |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Safety Legislation 1This module introduces the Irish & EU legal system and examines the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act and principle regulations pertaining to safety, health and welfare in the workplace. Learning Outcomes 1. Describe the operation of the legal system in connection with safety and health at work. 4. Interpret and apply legislative requirements to the workplace. |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Construction TechnologyThis module deals with the fundamental principles of construction methods, materials and technology. The hazards associated with construction are explored and effective solutions and controls discussed. Learning Outcomes 1. Describe construction activities and establish safe work practices through hazard identification and risk assessment. 2. Consider key personnel in the construction industry and how their relationships influence the safety of a project 3. Discuss the challenges that the construction industry poses to the safety professional making special reference to how legislation can assist in the successful running of a construction project. 4. Interpret training requirementsinvolved in the construction process. 5. Consider the need for effective communication in the construction industry |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Manual Handling Instructor TrainingThe aim of this module is to provide students with the knowledge, skill and competence to effectively identify manual handling training requirements and deliver manual handling training. This module is the equivalent of the QQI Special Purpose Award Instructing Manual Handling 6N0233. Learning Outcomes 1. Have a basic knowledge of the legislation in relation to manual handling in the workplace. 2. Recognise and describe risk factors associated with manual handling activity and workplace conditions and the development of musculoskeletal disorders, particularly to the back. 3. Describe and demonstrate safe handling practice and workplace organisation to reducerisk of the development of musculoskeletal disorders. 4. Design and communicateinstruction for safe handling practice and its importancein the workplace. 5. Perform simple manual handling risk assessments |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Data and Statistics in HealthThis Module introduces students to descriptive statistics, probability and some probability distributions (Normal and Binomial). These topics will be introduced in the context of health and safety. An appropriate computing software package (E.g. EXCEL, SPSS, MINITAB, JMP, StatCrunch and R are popular statistical packages) will be introduced to perform statistical analysis. Learning Outcomes 1. Use correctterminology/vocabulary to discussfindings of statistical methods 2. Apply descriptive (numerical and graphical) statistics to present simple summaries of data 3. Collate data and use an appropriate computing software to perform descriptive statistics on data set in a coherent scientific manner 4. Apply probability and some probability distributions (Normal and Binomial) to data analysis 5. Communicate statistical data individually and in teams in an appropriate format |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Workstation Assessor TrainingThe aim of this module is to provide students with the knowledge and skills to conduct ergonomic hazard identification and risk assessment of workplace workstations and examine suitable organisational and operational controls. Learning Outcomes 1. Have a basic knowledge of current health & safety legislation in relation to workplace workstations. 2. Identify ergonomic risk factors, hazards and risks of workplace workstations and explain their association with musculoskeletal disorders. 3. Complete an ergonomic workstation risk assessment. 4. Identify practical solutions to reduce workers risk of developing musculoskeletal disorders. 5. Communicatethe findings from ergonomic risk assessment and offer recommendationsof basic principles for securing safety and health in the workplace. |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Occupational Safety and Health Enquiry Based Learning 4The theme of this Enquiry Based Learning module is Communicating Occupational Safety and Health needs. The aim of this module is to provide an opportunity for students to work in groups to integrate and apply the knowledge associated with the programme outcomes with special focus on delivering information in a variety of formats. Learning Outcomes 1. Behave professionally while participating effectively in a structred team environment 2. Participate in, observe and report on field work activities relevant to OHS. |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Biological Health Hazards in the WorkplaceThis module will introduce Occupational Safety and Health students to the various Biohazards present in the workplace. It will evaluate the potential of these microorganisms to cause occupationally acquired diseases and will examine methods for the prevention, control and disposal of these pathogens. It will also appraise the Legislation that deals with Biological Agents in the workplace. Learning Outcomes 1. Define and detail the various biohazards that are potentially present in the workplace 2. Explain the modes of entry of workplacepathogens anddemonstrate a knowledge ofthe body’s defence mechanisms to prevent infection 3. Outline the major occupationally acquired diseases 4. Interpretthe duty of the employer with respect to safe handling and disposal of biohazards 5. Carry out a series of biohazard related practicals |
05 | Mandatory |
Year 3
Semester | Module Details | Credits | Mandatory / Elective |
---|---|---|---|
1 |
Safety and Health Legislation 2The module examines a wide range of health and safety legislation in the workplace and considers aspects of employment law and data protection legislation relevant to health and safety professionals. Learning Outcomes 1. Identifykeylegal requirements of the major statutory instruments relating to safety, health andwelfare at work. 4. Apply a knowledge of the law to relevant work place issues. |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Occupational Health and Health PromotionThis module will explore the common occupational diseases and illnesses arising from workplace exposures. It will consider the physical and mental health of the worker and consider appropriate health surveillance strategies for defined health risks. Management of occupational health risks will be considered through prevention, promotion and rehabilitation strategies. Learning Outcomes 1. Identifythe multidisciplinary approach to managing occupational health risk and differentiate between the strategies of prevention, promotion and rehabilitation within occupational health. |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Occupational Hygiene Theory & Practical (Chemical and Biological Agents)The aim of this module is to provide the student with the knowledge and practical expertise required to assess and chemical and biological contaminants in workplace air, so that scientific data can be used to evaluate the workplace environment. Learning Outcomes 1. Identify workplace hazards of a chemical and biological nature. 5. Evaluate occupational air sampling data for chemical and biological exposure in the workplace. |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Environmental Topics in the WorkplaceThe aim of this module is to address environmental topics in the workplace and their links to OHS. Learning Outcomes 1. Outline the parameters used for environmental monitoring including air and water. 3. Evaluate pollution abatement technologies. 4. Examine the links between environmental and OHS issues in the workplace and the Environmental Risk Assessment Process. |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Occupational Safety and Health Enquiry Based Learning 5The theme of this Enquiry Based Learning module is Interpreting and Reporting Occupational Safety and Health Data. The aim of this module is to provide an opportunity for students to work in groups to integrate and apply the knowledge gained from individual safety and health modules. Scenarios are devised to interlink subject-matter from the other modules being taught in the semester. Learning Outcomes 1. Describe, discuss and evaluate a wide range of risk factors in the workplace. 4. Employ data analysing synthesising and summarising skills in a relevantwork setting. 5. Collaboratively solve cross disciplinary problems and reflect on their learning experience. |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Management of Hazardous Materials and ProcessesThe aim of this module is to present students with the technical and legislative information to manage dangerous materials in the workplace. Protection of the environment in conjunction with occupational safety and health will be addressed. Learning Outcomes 1. Define the hazardous properties of substances and assess their implications to the workplace. |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Construction Safety and Contractor ManagementThis module explores current construction trends and technologies. It develops a student's ability to take part in a multi-disciplinary construction team. The challenges facing OSH professionals in the industry will be addressed along with the development of solutions. Learning Outcomes 1. Describe, discuss and evaluate a wide range of risk factors in the construction workplace and relevant construction based solutions. 5. Communicate the importance and relevance of safety in the construction environment to a range of audience. |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Occupational Hygiene – Control of Hazardous SubstancesThis course aims to d escribe the ways in which exposure to hazardous substances arise in the workplace, and to introduce the methodologies and technologies available to control exposures and thereby reduce the risks to workers health , with a particular focus on latent disease. Learning Outcomes 1. Describe the regulatory framework for chemical management and be able to apply these legislative requirements to the control of chemicals in variety of workplace environments; 2. Evaluate occupational hygiene data and advise on appropriate controls to reduce the residual risk , recognising the range of approaches to risk reduction embodied in the hierarchy of control and select appropriate strategies for implementation; 3. Discuss the importance of design considerations in terms of the workplace, process, and plant, as a means of reducing occupational exposures; 4. Describe the principal elements of a local exhaust ventilation system, give examples of typical installations and know how to carry out the necessary measurements to assess whether a local exhaust ventilation system is effective and operating to the design specification; 5. Describe how personal protective equipment programmes may be used in an effective manner. |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
OSH Enquiry Based Learning 6 – Safety Statement and Risk AssessmentThe aims of this module are to provide an opportunity for students to independently and collectively develop the necessary knowledge and skills to conduct hazard identification and risk assessment in a work environment and examine suitable organisational and operational controls contained in the Safety Statement. Learning Outcomes 1. Research and prepare a safety statement for application to a prescribed work place. 3. Work independently and apply technical judgement on complex tasks. 4. Communicate and cooperate with all relevant stakeholders in a professional manner. 5. Collaboratively solve OSH technical issues and participate in a structured group environment. |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Environmental Management for the Safety PractitionerThe aim of this module is to address the increasing requirement for occupational safety and health professionals to take responsibility for environmental management in the workplace. The module will focus on safety practitioner skills which are transferable to environmental issues and examine the cross functionality of EHS in the workplace. Learning Outcomes 1. Describe, discussand evaluate theenvironmental risk management process. 2. Analyse legislation prescribed for the control of major accident hazards with reference to case studies of major disasters and identify the key lessons to be learned. 3. Identify and interpret environmental policy and legislation and its impact on the workplace. 5. Examine and discuss environmental licencing systems. |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Applied Statistics and Data ManagementThe module is designed to further the learner's knowledge of the subject of statistics as applied to topics in occupational safety and health. The module will cover descriptive statistics and data presentation before moving on to cover some basic inferential statistics. Methods of statistical testing which have particular relevance to occupational health and safety will also be dealt with. Finally, the module will include reviewing the use of databases to track OSH related items. Learning Outcomes 1. Demonstrate their knowledge of core statistics skills such as data presentation and use ofsummary statistics. |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Hazard and Risk ManagementThis module addresses societal and organisational risk management issues and organisational characteristics necessary for controlling risk. Learning Outcomes 1. Explainthe role and benefits of Risk Management in the achievement of business excellence and within the wider socio-economic context. 2. Discuss essential elements of the risk management process. 4. Recognise and examine the influence of individual and group preferenceson risk perception, risk awareness and risk acceptance. 5. Explain organisational culture and characteristics relevant to safety culture and safety climate. |
05 | Mandatory |
Progression
Level 7 graduates can progress to the final year of our Level 8 degree – AU967 BSc (Hons) in Occupational Safety and Health.
Level 8 graduates may progress to the two-year online Masters in Environmental Health and Safety Management in ATU Sligo.
Level 8 graduates may progress to a range of other Master and PhD options in ATU or at other third-level institutions.
Download a prospectus
Entry Requirements
Leaving Certificate Entry Requirement | 5 subjects at O6/H7 English or Irish at O6/H7 Maths at O6/H7 or Foundation Maths at F2 |
QQI/FET Major Award Required | Any |
Additional QQI/FET Requirements | C20139 or 5N1833 or C20174 or C20175 or 5N18396 or 5N0556 or Leaving Certificate Maths at 06/H7/F2 |
Testimonial
“One of the main things I noticed when studying Occupational Safety and Health in ATU Sligo, is that each module begins at a basic level. Through a great mix of theory lectures and practical labs, my knowledge grew gradually over the semesters to an advanced level. Group work is a huge focus in the degree, especially Enquiry Based Learning (EBL). This has greatly boosted my confidence in presenting in front of crowds, communicating professionally and working efficiently as part of a team. When I chose to study this degree, I could never have imagined the huge range of opportunities that it would open for me.”
Michael Murray , Occupational Safety and Health graduate
Fees
Total Fees EU: €3000
This annual student contribution charge is subject to change by Government. Additional tuition fees may apply. Click on the link below for more information on fees, grants and scholarships.
Total Fees Non-EU: €12000
Subject to approval by ATU Governing Body (February 2025)
Further information on feesProfessional Accreditation
This degree is accredited by the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH), the only chartered body for health and safety practitioners and the world’s largest health and safety professional membership organisation. This qualifies students to take up a career as a Health and Safety Advisor or Manager in any type of industry, anywhere in the world.
Careers
Graduates work as safety advisors, health and safety officers, safety training consultants, site safety officers and safety coordinators in a wide range of sectors. These sectors include pharmaceuticals, chemicals, electronics, the food and beverage sector, mining, construction, commercial, wholesale, transport, retail and the health sector.
The Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 was brought in to make provision for the safety, health and welfare of persons at work. This Act clarifies and enhances the responsibilities of employers, the self-employed, employees and various other parties in relation to safety and health at work. This has resulted in a huge amount of employment opportunities for our graduates every year.
The typical starting salary for graduates is €32k+, and our Level 8 degree has a 100% employment rate over the past number of years.
This degree is also accredited by the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH), the world’s largest health and safety professional membership organisation. This allows our graduates to take up employment anywhere in the world. Our graduates work across Europe, Asia, Australia, and the USA.
Students are also qualified manual handling trainers and visual display unit assessors when they graduate.
Further Information
Contact Information
T: +353 (0)71 931 8510
E: admissions.sligo@atu.ie