Thirty eight percent of occupational health and safety specialists worked for federal, state, and local governments in 2010. In the federal government, specialists are employed by various agencies, including the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) of the U.S. Department of Labor. Most large government agencies employ specialists to protect agency employees. In addition to working for governments, occupational safety and health specialists worked in management, scientific, and technical consulting services; education services; hospitals; and chemical manufacturing.
This topic continues below:
Occupational health and safety specialists may be exposed to strenuous, dangerous, or stressful conditions. Specialists use gloves, helmets, and other safety equipment to minimize injury.
Most occupational health and safety specialists work full time. Some specialists may work weekends or irregular hours in emergencies.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2012-13 Edition
