Sampling and analysis is one of the most critical processes determining the accuracy of occupational hygiene measurements. Sampling duration, the number of samples, and the method used are planned in a manner that accurately represents exposure during the work performed. In the evaluation of exposure to chemical agents, the long-term reference exposure period is 8 hours for a shift, while the short-term reference exposure period is 15 minutes.
When measuring workers’ personal exposure levels, the sampling device or passive sampler is placed appropriately on the worker and within the breathing zone. Samples are transported, preserved, and analyzed in accordance with the method used. Environmental conditions that could affect results are evaluated and recorded.
Every sample accepted into our Occupational Hygiene Laboratory is identified with a unique registration code. The sample is tracked within the laboratory solely by this code. Samples that do not meet the requirements of the method used are not accepted for analysis. Preliminary review, sampling, measurement, and analysis processes are carried out in their entirety by our laboratory.
WHY IS SAMPLING AND ANALYSIS IMPORTANT?
The sampling and analysis process constitutes the technical foundation of occupational hygiene measurements. Samples that are not properly collected or transported under appropriate conditions can directly affect measurement results. For this reason, the entire process must be conducted in accordance with the method used and relevant standards.
- Accurate representation of exposure is ensured
- Reliability of measurement results is increased
- The laboratory analysis process complies with standards
- Accurate data is generated for risk assessment
FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLES IN THE SAMPLING PROCESS
- Appropriate sampling method is determined
- Sampling device and equipment are prepared
- Sample is collected in a manner representative of exposure
- Transportation and preservation conditions are maintained
- Sample is accepted into the laboratory for analysis
- Results are evaluated and reported
OCCUPATIONAL HYGIENE SAMPLING AND ANALYSIS PROCEDURES
Below is summary information regarding sampling and analysis processes implemented for different parameters.
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) Sampling and Analysis
Volatile organic compounds are organic substances with high vapor pressure at normal room temperature. VOC measurements can be carried out using PID, FID, colorimetric tubes, and electrochemical sensor devices. The most detailed results are obtained by analyzing samples collected on-site with sampling tubes in the laboratory using analytical instrumentation.
Pump flow verification is performed before and after sampling. The sample tube is placed in the correct orientation, secured in the breathing zone, and sampling is conducted for the appropriate sampling duration. After sampling is completed, the tube is capped, labeled, and preserved under suitable conditions.
Heavy Metal Sampling and Analysis
Heavy metal exposure can occur across many sectors such as mining, casting, smelting, chemical processes, and similar operations. Sampling is performed onto an appropriate filter using a pump. Flow rate and duration are determined according to relevant standards.
During the analysis phase, filters are prepared in the laboratory using appropriate methods and analyzed by atomic absorption or relevant instruments. Results are calculated taking into account sampled air volume and blank sample data.
Respirable Dust Sampling and Analysis
Respirable dust consists of particulates with low aerodynamic diameter and is sampled onto filters on-site. Cyclone-type samplers are used in these measurements, and the pump flow rate is set according to the critical flow rate value.
Sampling duration is determined according to the relevant standard and exposure duration. Filters are evaluated by precision weighing before and after sampling, thus calculating the dust concentration.
Total Dust Sampling and Analysis
Personal or ambient area sampling can be conducted in total dust measurements. Measurement duration is planned to represent exposure. Filters are pre-conditioned, re-weighed after sampling, and results are calculated according to sampled air volume.
Alkali Dust Sampling and Analysis
Alkali dusts are evaluated in a special dust class and are mostly analyzed by acid-base titration. The total load on the filter is carefully monitored. Sampling is carried out in accordance with the method used in terms of flow rate and duration.
Free Silica Sampling and Analysis
Free silica analyses are generally performed using FTIR-based methods. Sampling is carried out with PVC filters and a suitable cyclone system. Dust loading on the filter is checked, samples prepared in the laboratory are subjected to instrumental analysis, and concentration is calculated.
Sampling and Analysis from Metalworking Fluids
Sampling and analysis operations for metalworking fluids are planned according to the solubility characteristics of the sample. Filters are weighed in a controlled environment, field and laboratory blanks are prepared, and results are calculated after the extraction process is completed.
Carbon Black Sampling and Analysis
Carbon black samples are collected on filters and subjected to solvent, drying, and ashing stages in the laboratory. Carbon black concentration is calculated using weight differences. Potential interference sources are also evaluated.
Cyanide Sampling and Analysis
Appropriate sorbent tubes are used in cyanide measurements. Samples are collected on-site, blanks are prepared, and transported to the laboratory in accordance with stability conditions. As a result of the analysis, front and backup section data are evaluated together.
Formaldehyde Sampling and Analysis
Formaldehyde measurement can be performed using the color change method or absorption method. Samples are collected on-site with appropriate equipment, and spectrophotometric analysis is applied following chemical treatment in the laboratory.
Ammonia Sampling and Analysis
A filter, sorbent tube, and pump are used together in ammonia sampling. Samples are delivered to the laboratory under appropriate conditions. As a result of the analysis, ammonia concentration is determined using relevant calculation methods.
LEARN MORE ABOUT SAMPLING AND ANALYSIS
The sampling and analysis process is one of the fundamental components of occupational hygiene measurements. The method used, sampling duration, transportation conditions, and analytical infrastructure directly affect the reliability of results.
DETAILED INFORMATION
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