The American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA) unveiled its brand evolution at the recent Virtual AIHce EXP 2020. According to the association, the rebrand better reflects its diverse membership and looks toward the future of the profession. The new brand includes a new name—simply AIHA—as well as a logo and tagline: “Healthier Workplaces. A Healthier World.” In addition, AIHA will reposition itself as the professional association for occupational health and safety science professionals, rather than industrial hygienists.

“Our industry has progressed significantly over the past 80 years,” said Kathleen Murphy, president. “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. 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.”

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 also developed specific websites 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, CEO of AIHA. “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.

AIHA worked with an independent company to conduct qualitative and quantitative research to gather insights and better understand perceptions of the current state of AIHA’s messaging and brand. The research included in-depth phone interviews with board members, online qualitative discussions with a diverse range of AIHA members and students, and a survey of members.

For information visit www.aiha.org.