Certified Industrial Hygienist – CIH (ABIH)
By Raising Careers Staff | Updated: August 2019
OVERVIEW
Certification Description
The Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH) credential certifies that an individual has demonstrated the minimum level of knowledge and skills necessary to protect the health and safety of people in the workplace and the community. Professionals with this certification have been tested in all areas of the industrial hygiene field. This shows employers, employees and the public that the individual is competent in recognizing the potential workplace hazards that can result in injury, illness or impairment of workers and members of the community.
Professionals with this specialty credential may have career advancement opportunities and higher pay that other professionals may not be eligible for.
Skills Focus
The certification focuses on the following areas:
- Knowledge of physical energy protection and air sampling
- Ability to complete measurements for radiation, ventilation and vibration
- Understanding of the best practices for industrial hygiene programs
- Competency in regulatory requirements
- Ability to complete various audit techniques and quality assurance procedures
- Ability to analyze performance data
Exam Objectives
Exam Details
- Issuing Organization: American Board of Industrial Hygiene (ABIH)
- Prerequisites: Applicants must have a 4-year bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry, physics or engineering OR in industrial hygiene or safety; applicants must provide at least 2 professional references
- Questions: 180
- Time: 300 minutes
- Cost: $500
- Re-certification and certification renewal: Every 5 years
- View Certification Guidelines
Other relevant details: Exams are given at Prometric testing locations during April-May and October-November of each year
CIH (ABIH) Careers
Industrial Hygienist Careers
Jobs you can get with an CIH (ABIH) certification (additional requirements may apply):
- Occupational Health and Safety Specialist (OHSS)
- Occupational Health and Safety Technician
Salary (Base Level)
A specialty certification may not only increase your employability, but may increase your earnings potential as well. Keep in mind that your actual salary can vary substantially depending on region, job description and employer expectations. Reference salary for the OHSS shown. Salary based on 2019 data.
National average per year: $69,370*
National average per hour: $33.35*
*Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
CIH (ABIH) Training
Exam Preparation
- Review the CIH Exam Blueprint found in the Candidate Handbook
- Complete the sample exam and practice test questions
- Review terms on the Rubric Definitions List
- Review the Useful Equations document
- Take an online review course
- Study from exam review books and flashcards
Important: This is not a complete list of all certification training and learning options available. Remember to thoroughly research and choose study materials that fit your learning style and needs. This step is crucial to help you succeed in your certification exam.
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