73 Case study: Using a project-based approach to educate occupational hygiene students in the science of real-time monitoring

Abstract Introduction The use of real-time monitoring instruments to assess occupational exposure to workplace stressors is becoming increasingly popular. However, these instruments need to be used correctly to obtain trustworthy results. To accommodate this evolution, educators need to train students on the proper use and application of these instruments in the workplace. This study describes a project-based strategy used to train occupational hygiene students at the North-West University in various aspects of real-time monitoring. Methodology During this specific project, a group of three students, under the guidance of a supervisor, performed area monitoring for respirable particulates and noise at a clay brick factory using real-time monitoring instruments. For respirable particulates, the Nanozen DustCount 9000 and the conventional NIOSH 0600 was used, and the Svantek SV 104 dosimeter was used for noise monitoring. The project-based learning activities included 1) coaching and demonstrations from the supervisor, 2) individual practice, 3) collaboration, 4) in-field monitoring, 5) data analysis, 6) report writing, and 7) supervisory quality control. Results Thirteen sets of respirable dust and noise measurements were successfully collected, analysed and reported. Data from the real-time monitoring for respirable dust and noise could be linked to activities in the plant, such as the use of compressed air and shutdowns, which students found fascinating. Even though some mistakes made, errors were corrected during supervisory quality control, which helped the students to learn from the mistakes. Conclusions The project-based strategy incorporated communication, collaboration, critical thinking, and troubleshooting to guide students in the learning process, increase their confidence and enhance workplace readiness with regards to real-time monitoring.