The Industrial Revolution greatly changed, and as a rule worsened, the health hazards caused by industry, while the numbers at risk vastly increased. Physicians are bound by legal restrictions and must report industrial diseases. The industrial physician’s most important function, however, is to prevent industrial diseases.

Many of the measures to this end have become standard practice, but, especially in industries working with new substances, the physician should determine if workers are being damaged and suggest preventive measures. The industrial physician may advise management about industrial hygiene and the need for safety devices and protective clothing and may become involved in building design. The physician or health worker may also inform the worker of occupational health hazards.