As occupational hygienists, our role is to advocate on behalf of the workforce and influence workplaces to provide healthy work environments for all. In this role we often work alongside other health professionals but traditionally the different health disciplines have operated quite separately, with defined theoretical boundaries and unfortunately, a culture of competition.

However, as occupational health professionals, we are all working towards the common goal of better health in the workplace. Our challenge in providing effective and comprehensive workplace health strategies is to appreciate the importance of our expertise as occupational hygienists, while also recognising our potential synergies with other health disciplines.

There is a wealth of expertise and knowledge that we can all access by fostering closer working relationships with likeminded professionals.  Using accelerated silicosis as a case study, Julia’s address will highlight the importance of engaging occupational hygiene in early response to emerging issues and the success that can be achieved through a systematic culture of collaboration.