Industrial Chemicals Workers

Working conditions in plants vary, depending on specific jobs, the type and condition of the equipment used, and the size and age of the plant. Chemical processing jobs used to be very dangerous, dirty, and disagreeable. However, working conditions have steadily improved over the years as a result of environmental, safety, and health standards mandated by the government. Due to government intervention, chemical manufacturing now has an excellent safety record that is superior to many other manufacturing industries. Nevertheless, chemical plants by their very nature can be extremely hazardous if strict safety procedures are not followed and enforced. Precautions include wearing protective clothing and equipment where required. Hard hats and safety goggles are worn throughout the plant.

Although few jobs in this industry are strenuous, they may become monotonous. Since manufacturing is a continuous process, most chemical plants operate around the clock. Once a process has begun, it cannot be stopped. This means that workers are needed for three shifts; split, weekend, and night shifts are common.