188.694.81 Health of Vulnerable Worker Populations

Prerequisite:

Introduction to Online Learning is required prior to participating in any of the School's Internet-based courses.

Description:

Discusses occupational safety and health program considerations for vulnerable populations, including all levels of prevention and using examples such as the health needs of women workers, shift workers, aging workers, workers' families, and workers with chronic diseases or impairments. Focuses on strategies for identifying and removing barriers that affect health and work performance, program development and management responsibilities, and cost issues related to selected preventive and rehabilitative programs. Presents relevant research findings on the ability of vulnerable populations to benefit from safe and healthy working lives.

Learning Objectives:

Upon successfully completing this course, students will be able to:

1. Identify, for selected vulnerable subgroups, factors that influence the need for specific occupational health services
2. Describe the application of research findings to the practice of health professionals, including safety specialists, nurses, physicians, health educators, and others
3. Examine the contribution of workplace exposures to home environment contamination and implications for workers and their families
4. Analyze the occupational health needs of a specific vulnerable worker population
5. Prepare written and oral testimony to advocate for the needs of a vulnerable worker group

Methods of Assessment:

Class Participation 20%; Advocacy Assignment 50%; Final Paper 30%

Instructor Consent:

No consent required