Increasingly frequent recalls of products made overseas highlight the importance of safety in engineering.

And within NIU’s College of Engineering and Engineering Technology, some students work in the field of environmental health and safety; in other words, safety engineering.

“If it looks dangerous, we tell you why it is and what not to do,” said Dru Krusenoski, senior industrial technology major.

According to Earl Hansen, associate professor of technology and one of two instructors in the field at NIU, the program focuses on providing students with hands-on experience.

“We try to intern as many kids as we can,” Hansen said.

Some of the courses offered reflect that attitude. Applied ergonomics, Hansen said, puts students into an industry where they solve a particular problem.

Last year, students did an analysis of the shipping and receiving occurring at a local branch of Hamilton Sundstrand, a manufacturer of aerospace systems for several different types of airplanes.

Ben Watson, senior industrial technology major and president of the local American Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE), highlighted the importance of safety.

“The safety aspect entails everything these days,” Watson said.

Krusenoski agreed, noting that many large companies have whole departments focused on safety.

The environmental health and safety program is small compared to other programs at NIU. However, students in the program tout that as a benefit.

“It’s more learning than a lecture,” said Bran Mefford, senior industrial technology major. Krusenoski echoed similar sentiments, saying that the small numbers allow the students to get to know each other and the professor.

ASSE is in the process of organizing its annual spring conference, which is scheduled for Presidents Day weekend. Last year’s conference featured speakers from insurance agencies and the U.S. Army.