Summary

Many emerging technologies are becoming increasing ubiquitous in workplaces as well as non-occupational settings such as commercial and residential environments. While there are obvious benefits to these technologies, unintended exposures and risks from their use are becoming increasingly apparent. Fostering the safe and sustainable development and use of these technologies requires a critical mass of professionals and researchers with the interdisciplinary education, training, and adaptability to tackle these occupational health and safety (OHS) issues.

Johns Hopkins University, the University of Maryland, George Mason University, and Old Dominion University propose to work collaboratively on the Program on Occupational health and safety education on Emerging Technologies – Mid Atlantic Partnership (POccETMAP) to develop a comprehensive set of web-based educational and training modules, courses, and programs to foster the safe development and use of emerging technologies and mitigate their risks, emerging contaminants, and disaster preparedness.

To accomplish this objective, they will develop five online cores for professional training of OHS specialists, engineers, scientists, technicians, and instructors in the areas of (a) Detection Technologies for emerging contaminants; (b) Exposure assessment strategies; (c) Disaster preparedness and risk management; (d) Vulnerable occupational populations, and (e) Sustainable production and product stewardship of emerging technologies.

In the cores, they will demonstrate concepts with examples and illustrations drawn from the following emerging technologies: additive manufacturing such as 3-D printing, novel technologies for disinfection, electronic nicotine delivery systems, and nanobiotechnology. Each core will contain 10 innovative, web-based modules that include short narrated screencasts, animations, exercises, and activities. Instructors will use the modules to create lessons, courses, and programs in academic and continuing education settings. All materials will be freely available on the web, ensuring that the POccETMAP Program has a regional, national, and global reach.

This innovative program and its educational products will target industrial hygiene students; students in other science, engineering, and technology disciplines; and professionals who require continuing education on the health and safety of emerging technologies.