OHTA 502 (W502) – Thermal Environments: Understanding Heat Stress in the Workplace
The OHTA 502 (W502) – Thermal Environments course is designed to equip occupational health and safety professionals with the knowledge and skills to assess and control thermal stress in a wide range of working environments.
From extreme heat in foundries and refineries to cold storage facilities and outdoor labor, thermal environments significantly impact worker health, comfort, and productivity. This course provides critical tools to evaluate and mitigate those risks.
What Is OHTA 502 (W502)?
OHTA 502 (W502) is part of the internationally recognized Occupational Hygiene Training Association (OHTA) course series. It focuses on:
Understanding thermal comfort and thermal stress
Physiological responses to heat and cold
Measurement techniques using WBGT, globe thermometers, and other sensors
Control measures to reduce heat strain
Standards and guidelines (ISO 7243, ACGIH TLVs, ISO 7933, etc.)
Assessment techniques for indoor and outdoor work conditions
This course helps professionals accurately evaluate workplace thermal hazards and make informed decisions for the health and performance of workers.
Why Is Thermal Environment Training Important?
Excessive heat or cold can cause fatigue, dehydration, reduced cognitive function, and even heat stroke or hypothermia. These risks are especially pronounced in industries like:
Construction
Manufacturing
Mining
Oil & gas
Agriculture
Food storage & logistics
Understanding how to measure thermal conditions and implement control strategies can reduce incidents, increase safety, and ensure regulatory compliance.
Who Should Take W502?
This course is essential for:
Occupational hygienists
HSE managers and advisors
Industrial safety engineers
Environmental health professionals
Anyone pursuing the ICertOHTA (International Certificate in Occupational Hygiene Training Association)
How the W502 Course Is Delivered
Training providers offer OHTA 502 (W502) both in-person and online, with a structured combination of:
Interactive lectures
Practical measurement sessions
Case study evaluations
Assessment through a written exam and practical exercises
Upon successful completion, participants receive a certificate recognized globally by OHTA and BOHS.
Why Train with JAB International Consultancy
At JAB International Consultancy, we deliver OHTA-approved training programs designed to meet international standards. Our instructors bring hands-on experience in evaluating real-world thermal environments, equipping you with practical knowledge that extends beyond the classroom.
We support your full journey through the OHTA 500 Series, guiding you from foundational courses like W201 to specialized modules such as W502.
For a deeper understanding of the OHTA curriculum, visit the Occupational Hygiene Training Association official website.
