The section consists of two units, namely: the Occupational Medicine Referral Clinic and the Ergonomics Unit. This section’s mission is to create better workplaces for workers through research, clinical services, ergonomic risk assessments and teaching and training of occupational health practitioners, employees and their representatives.

There is a reciprocal relationship with other sections within the NIOH, providing support for their routine services and research, and utilising their expertise in specialised areas where required.

Health Hazard Evaluations

The section contributes in health hazard evaluations in collaboration with the Occupational Hygiene Section when doing follow up of patients assessed in the clinic.

Teaching and Training

The staff in the section contributes to professional development by lecturing in higher degrees and diplomas (Diploma in Occupational Health and Masters in Public Health) at different universities. Informal teaching is done in the form of workshops and seminars on topical occupational health topics of interest to labour groups, inspectors, occupational health practitioners and employers. The section also contributes to capacity building for provincial health units in providing public occupational health services.

Research

The section contributes to new knowledge by conducting own research, supervising students’ research projects and collaborating with other sections in multidisciplinary research on occupational health and safety.

For more Information about the Occupational Medicine Section, contact:

Head of Occupational Medicine
Dr Nompumelelo Ndaba
Tel: +27-(0)11-712-6573
E-mail: nompumelelon@nioh.ac.za

Occupational Medicine Clinic
Sr Goitsimang Buffel
Tel: +27-(0)11-712-6420/6462
Fax: +27-(0)11-712-6531
E-mail: goitsimangb@nioh.ac.za

Ergonomics Unit
Ms Zandile Hoyi
Tel: +27-(0)11-712-6479
E-mail: zandileh@nioh.ac.za