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.

Occupational hygiene specialist measuring thermal stress with equipment during OHTA 502 (W502) training.

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