Passive sampling in combination with thermal desorption and gas chromatography as a tool for self-assessment of chemical exposure.
Diffusive samplers for monitoring of air quality are user-friendly devices that can normally be operated by the user himself. Hence these samplers are suitable for self-assessment. Practical and work organisational aspects of self-assessment of chemical exposure were studied in different occupational settings. It was found that the diffusive sampler used in these studies, the Perkin-Elmer tube in combination with thermal desorption, worked well for the purpose and could be correctly handled by the individuals using it. The results from self-assessments agreed well with expert measurements carried out by an occupational hygienist. However, in order to obtain a sustainable system of self-assessment strong organizational support is needed.
Sunesson
Anna-Lena
AL
National Institute for Working Life, Umeå, Sweden.
Liljelind
Ingrid
I
Sundgren
Margit
M
Pettersson-Strömbäck
Anita
A
Levin
Jan-Olof
JO
D000327:Adsorption; D016902:Air Pollution, Indoor / Q000032:analysis*; D002849:Chromatography, Gas; D004058:Diffusion; D004784:Environmental Monitoring / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D016273:Occupational Exposure; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity; D013696:Temperature