Who They Are
Occupational Health Nurses (OHNs) are registered nurses who specialize in promoting and protecting the health and safety of workers across industries including healthcare, manufacturing, corporate, and government settings.
Professional Organization
The American Association of Occupational Health Nurses (AAOHN) is the primary professional organization representing occupational and environmental health nurses. AAOHN supports over 3,200 members worldwide and includes more than 30 state-based chapters.
AAOHN Key Roles
• Defines scope and standards of practice
• Establishes a Code of Ethics
• Promotes workplace health and safety
• Provides continuing education (AAOHN Academy)
• Advances research in occupational health
• Advocates for the profession across sectors
• Responds to emerging workplace health issues
What OHNs Do
• Injury and illness prevention
• Workplace hazard assessment
• Employee health screenings
• Case management and return-to-work programs
• Health promotion and wellness programs
• Regulatory compliance (OSHA, CDC guidelines)
Workforce Snapshot (U.S.)
• Predominantly female workforce
• Average age: mid-40s
• Common work settings: hospitals, corporate health, manufacturing
• Growing demand due to workplace safety, aging workforce, and chronic disease management
Why It Matters
Occupational Health Nurses play a critical role in reducing workplace injuries, improving employee well-being, and supporting organizational productivity. They serve as a bridge between healthcare systems and the workforce.
