Oxford Handbook of Occupational Health

Abstract

Since its first publication in 2007, this pocket-sized handbook has firmly established its place as an essential resource for occupational health (OH) practice. With a wealth of updated information packed in its 920 pages, the much-awaited third edition follows the ever-changing landscape of health as well as the nature of work. The three editors (two of whom are new to this edition) are eminent leaders in the discipline of occupational medicine. The contributors are mainly consultants in occupational medicine, but also professionals in other disciplines related to OH, which reflects the multidisciplinary nature of OH practice. The primary target audience is OH practitioners, including support OH professionals, but the book is also of interest to a much wider readership which includes anyone with involvement in ­workplace health. The structure of the book mirrors previous editions and covers the following areas: occupational hazards; occupational diseases; OH practice; fitness for work; OH law; occupational hygiene; toxicology; epidemiology in OH; environmental medicine; safety science; practical procedures; emergencies in OH. This edition includes new and updated information on many chapters such as fitness for work, work health and disability, ethics, and unsurprisingly respiratory disorders and infection control. The section on chemical hazards now includes the chemical structures of the different substances. The new edition also includes legal, guidance and publication updates with website links, and an informative appendix on informatics in OH. In addition to the succinct text, the book contains tables, diagrams and figures to enhance understanding.