Following a shift to a virtual event amid the pandemic, the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA) also has moved to change its image.
The organization's "brand evolution" shortens its name to just AIHA and includes an updated logo and tagline.
AIHA President Kathleen Murphy says, "“Our industry has progressed significantly over the past 80 years. As the premier organization representing our profession, we had to evolve to meet the needs of our current and future members as well as the general public."
She continues, "COVID-19 has put a spotlight on our profession and positioned many of our members front and center as experts in occupational health in their workplaces and in the forefront of the country’s public eye. This change to OHS helps the public associate the profession with health and better understand what we do."
Along with the revised name and logo, AIHA's tagline "Healthier Workplaces. A Healthier World," highlights the organization's mission.
In addition, the organization announces that it will reposition itself as the professional association for occupational health and safety science professionals, rather than industrial hygienists.
The launch of the new brand kicks off AIHA’s campaign to educate employers about the value occupational health and safety scientists bring to a workplace. The educational initiative includes reaching out to employers in the construction, chemical manufacturing and first responder industries and will include others in the future. AIHA has developed specific websites, including www.workerhealthandsafety.org for employers to access information about how to make their workplaces healthy.
“AIHA is now in a better position to serve its existing members and recruit and educate the next generation of occupational health and safety scientists,” said Lawrence Sloan, MBA, CAE, chief executive officer, AIHA, in a statement. “We will continue to advance and position the profession to better protect workers, businesses and the public. We will provide the highest quality of educational resources and opportunities for members to share their knowledge.”
In addition to educating employers, AIHA is reaching out to undergraduate and graduate students in science about the benefits of the profession in an effort to steer students toward the profession. The campaign includes reaching out to professors and guidance counselors who can guide young professionals in their careers.