An industrial hygienist is responsible for monitoring the noise level at the work place and recommend proper protection when the noise exposure levels exceed the OSHA permissible levels. Radiation hazards are increasingly prevalent in the age of high technology. Alpha radiation is the least penetrating, making shielding simple, whereas the other types of radiation require more strict shielding requirements. Nonionizing or electromagnetic wave radiation includes ultraviolet, infrared, microwave and laser radiation. The greatest risk for nonionizing radiation in the workplace comes from lasers.
Biological hazards come from molds, fungi, bacteria, and insects.
Bacteria may be introduced into the workplace through sewage, food waste, water, or insects. Biological hazards from various biological organisms can lead to disease in workers. The outbreak of what has come to be known as Legionnaire's disease is an example of what can result from biological hazards. This disease first surfaced at a convention where numerous participants became sick and soon died. That bacteria has been since named Legionnella.