Section I

OR-OSHA TECHNICAL MANUAL

SAMPLING,
MEASUREMENT METHODS,
AND INSTRUMENTS

CHAPTER 1: PERSONAL SAMPLING FOR

AIR CONTAMINATION
OR-OSHA TECHNICAL MANUAL

CHAPTER 2: SAMPLING FOR SURFACE

CONTAMINATION

CHAPTER 3: TECHNICAL EQUIPMENT

CHAPTER 4: SAMPLE SHIPPING AND

OR-OSHA TECHNICAL MANUAL

HANDLING

II
II
SECTION I: CHAPTER 1

PERSONAL SAMPLING
FOR AIR CONTAMINANT
A. INTRODUCTION

Unnecessary air sampling wastes laboratory

A. Introduction..........................................I:1-1 resources and produces delays in reporting results of
necessary sampling. Evaluate the potential for
B. General Sampling Procedures.............I:1-2 employee overexposure by observing and screening
samples before conducting any partial or full-shift air
C. Sampling Techniques...........................I:1-3 sampling.
D. Special Sampling Procedures...............I:1-8 Screening with portable monitors, gravimetric
sampling, or detector tubes can be used to evaluate
E. Equipment Preparation the following:
and Calibration............................I:1-9
@ exposures to substances with exceptionally
F. Filter Media........................................I:1-11 high permissible exposure limits (PELs) in
relatively dust-free atmospheres, e.g., ferric
G. Filter Weighing Procedure................I:1-12 oxide and aluminum oxide;

H. Bibliography.......................................I:1-13 @ intermittent processes with substances without

short-term exposure limits (STELs);
Appendix I:1-1. Detector Tubes
and Pumps..................................I:1-14 @ engineering controls, work practices, or
isolation of process; and
Appendix I:1-2. Electronic Flow
Calibrators..................................I:1-16 @ the need for CSHO protection.

Appendix I:1-3. Manual Buret @ substances that have ceiling exposure limits
Bubble Meter Technique...........I:1-17 (there are validated direct reading sampling
devices available specifically for these
Appendix I:1-4. Shelf Life of Sampling substances)
Media Provided by SLTC..........I:1-19
Take a sufficient number of samples to obtain a
Appendix I:1-5. Sampling for representative estimate of exposure. Contaminant
Special Analyses..........................I:1-20 concentrations vary seasonally, with weather, with
production levels, and in a single location or job
Appendix I:1-6. Sampling and class.
Analytical Errors (SAEs)............I:1-23

I:1-1
If the employer has conducted air sampling and @ asbestos,
monitoring in the past, review the records. @ mineral oil and oil mist,
@ chlorodiphenyl,
Bulk samples are often required to assist the OR-OSHA lab @ hydrogenated terphenyls,
in the proper analysis of field samples. (See Section I, @ chlorinated camphene,
Chapter 4, Sample Shipping and Handling.) Some - diisocyanates,
contaminants in these categories are: - polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons,
@ fugitive grain dust, and
@ silica, @ explosibility testing.
@ portland cement,
Bulk samples can also be taken and analyzed to support
any Hazard Communication inspections (i.e., Material
Safety Data Sheet determinations).

B. GENERAL SAMPLING PROCEDURES

Screen the sampling area with detector tubes, if The inlet should always be in a downward vertical position
appropriate. Determine the appropriate sampling technique to avoid gross contamination. Position the excess tubing so
(see Section C or the current version of the Chemical that it does not interfere with the work of the employee.
Information Table in Chapter 13, Appendix A of the OR-
OSHA Field Operations Manual or at Turn on the pump and record the starting time.
http://www.cbs.state.or.us/internal/osha/lab/lab.htm on the
Internet. Prepare and calibrate the equipment and obtain Observe the pump operation for a short time after starting
the appropriate sample media. to make sure it is operating correctly.

Select the employee to be sampled and discuss the purpose Record the information required by the Air Sampling Data
of the sampling. Inform the employee when and where the Form (OSHA 91A).
equipment will be removed. Stress the importance of not
removing or tampering with the sampling equipment. Turn Check pump every two hours. More frequent checks may
off or remove sampling pumps before an employee leaves a be necessary with heavy filter loading. Ensure that the
potentially contaminated area (such as when he/she goes to sampler is still assembled properly and that the hose has
lunch or on a break). not become pinched or detached from the cassette or the
pump. For filters, observe for symmetrical deposition,
Instruct the employee to notify the supervisor or the CSHO fingerprints, or large particles, etc. Record the flow rate.
if the sampler requires temporary removal.
Periodically monitor the employee throughout the work-
Place the sampling equipment on the employee so that it day to ensure that sample integrity is maintained and
does not interfere with work performance. cyclical activities and work practices are identified.

Attach the collection device (filter cassette, charcoal tube, Take photographs (as appropriate) and detailed notes
etc.) to the shirt collar or as close as practical to the nose concerning visible airborne contaminants, work practices,
and mouth of the employee, i.e., in a hemisphere forward of potential interferences, movements, and other conditions to
the shoulders with a radius of approximately 6 to 9 inches. assist in determining appropriate engineering controls.

I:1-2
Prepare blank(s) during the sample period for each type of Prepare the samples for mailing to the OR-OSHA lab for
sample collected. (See Section I, Chapter 4, Sample analysis. (See Section I, Chapter 4.)
Shipping and Handling.) One blank will suffice for up to
20 samples for any given analysis except asbestos, which Recalibrate pumps after each day of sampling (before
requires a minimum of two field blanks. These blanks may charging).
include opened but unused charcoal tubes.
For unusual sampling conditions such as wide temperature
Turn off the pump and record the ending time. and pressure differences from calibration conditions, call
the OR-OSHA lab for technical support.
Remove the collection device from the pump and seal it
with an Occupational Health Sample seal, 440-1316 as
soon as possible. The seal should be attached across
sample inlet and outlet so that tampering is not possible.
(See Figures I:1-1a and I:1-1b) or the sample or samples
may be placed in a whirlpak. Turn down the end of the
whirlpak and seal.

Figure I:1- 1a. Improperly Figure I:1-1b. Properly sealed cassette with OSHA-21
sealed cassette allows access to inlet and outlet after sample form covering inlet and outlet ports provides security.
has been taken.

Note: Radio frequency electromagnetic fields can interfere with the proper operation of industrial hygiene instruments. This
interference is called electromagnetic susceptibility (EMS). Determine if there is a potential for such interference. Likely
sources of radio frequency interference are walkie-talkies, vehicles equipped with mobile radio transmitters, RF heat sealers, etc.
If there is a potential for such interference, select sampling instruments that are properly rated for EMS to avoid faulty data or
malfunction.

C. SAMPLING TECHNIQUES

DETECTOR TUBES Submit the detector tube pump to the OR-OSHA Lab
yearly for calibration. (See Appendix I:1-1.)
Each pump should be leak-tested before use.

I:1-3
TOTAL DUST AND METAL FUME the grit pot by turning it upside down and tapping it
gently on a solid surface.
Collect total dust on a preweighed, 5.0 micron low-ash
polyvinyl chloride or a 0.8 micron polyvinyl chloride @ Clean the cyclone thoroughly and gently after each
filter at a flow rate of about 2 liters per minute (L/min), use in warm soapy water. Rinse thoroughly in clean
depending on the rate required to prevent overloading. water, shake off excess water, and set aside to dry
before reassembly. Never insert anything into the
Collect metal fumes on a 0.8-micron mixed cellulose cyclone during cleaning. See Figure I:1-2.
ester filter at a flow rate of approximately 1.5 L/min, not
to exceed 2.0 L/min. Total particulates can be @ Inspect the cyclone parts for signs of wear or damage
determined with metal fumes using a 0.8 micron such as scoring, rifling, or a loose coupler. Replace
polyvinyl chloride filter. the units or parts if they appear damaged.

Take care to avoid overloading the filter, as evidenced by @ Submit the cylcones to the lab yearly for leak testing..
any loose particulate.
@ Detailed instructions on leak testing are available
Calibrate personal sampling pumps before and after each from the OR-OSHA Lab.
day of sampling, using a bubble meter method
(electronic or mechanical) as described in Section E.

RESPIRABLE DUST
Collect respirable dust using a clean cyclone equipped
with a preweighed 5.0 micron low-ash polyvinyl chloride
filter at a flow rate of 1.7 + 0.2 L/min. See Figure I:1-2.

Collect silica only as a respirable dust. A bulk sample

should be submitted to the OR-OSHA Lab.

All filters used shall be preweighed and postweighed.

CALIBRATION PROCEDURES

@ Perform the calibration at the pressure and

temperature where the sampling is to be
conducted.
Figure I:1-2. The cyclone (chamber) of the cyclone assembly
is sensitive to scratches.
@ For respirable dust sampling using a cyclone or
inhalable dust sampler set up the calibration
apparatus as shown in Figure I:1-9. INHALABLE DUST

@ Place the inhalable dust sampler or cyclone Collect inhalable dust using an IOM inhalable sampler with a
assembly in a 1-liter jar. The jar is provided preweighed 25 mm 0.8 micron PVC polyvinyl chloride filter
with a special cover. at a flow rate of ~2.0 L/min. See Figure I:1-2a. For
calibration see the preceding Calibration Procedures section.
@ Connect the tubing from the electronic bubble
meter to the inlet of the jar.

@ Connect the tubing from the outlet of the cyclone

holder assembly or from the filter cassette to the
outlet of the jar and then to the sampling pump.

@ Calibrate the pump. Readings must be within

5% of each other.

CYCLONE CLEANING

@ Unscrew the grit pot from the cyclone. Empty

I:1-4
 Figure I:1-3. A charcoal or “C”-tube with glass-sealed ends
and NIOSH-approved caps before sampling.

Figure I:1-2a. IOM Inhalable dust sampler.

Use the smaller section of the tube as a back-up and position
it near the sampling pump. The tube shall be held or attached
WELDING FUME SAMPLING
in an approximately vertical position with the inlet down
during sampling.
Collect welding fumes inside the welding helmet using a
25 mm 0.8 micron polyvinyl chloride filter at ~ 1 to 3 Draw the air to be sampled directly into the inlet of the tube.
L/min. The cassette should be placed in the same This air is not to be passed through any hose or tubing before
horizontal plane and within ~ 2 inches (50 mm) of the entering the tube.
mouth of the welder. The WELDFUME sampler can be
attached to the helmet harness or around the neck of the Cap the tube with the supplied plastic caps immediately after
welder to assist in securing the cassette in this area. See sampling and seal with an OSHA-21 form as soon as possible.
Figure I:1-2b. (See Figures I:1-4a and b.) The tube may placed in a
whirlpak and sealed. Do not ship with bulk material.

Tubes may be furnished by the OR-OSHA lab with either

caps or flame-sealed glass ends. If using the capped version,
simply uncap during the sampling period and recap at the end
of the sampling period.

For organic vapors and gases, low-flow pumps are required.

Refer to the Chemical Information Manual for flow rates
recommended for specific chemicals.

With sorbent tubes, flow rates may have to be lowered or

smaller air volumes (half the maximum) used when there is
high humidity (above 90%) in the sampling area or relatively
high concentrations of other organic vapors are present.

Figure I:1-2b. Cassette placed in the welders breathing

zone using the WELDFUME sampler attached to the
welding fume helmet.

SOLID SORBENT TUBES

Figure I:1- 4a. Correctly
Organic vapors and gases may be collected on activated
sealed “C” -Tube. Sample is completely enclosed in the seal,
charcoal, silica gel, or other adsorption tubes using low-
and no tampering is possible.
flow pumps.

Immediately before sampling, break off the ends of the

flame-sealed tube so as to provide an opening
approximately half the internal diameter of the tube.
Wear eye protection when breaking ends and use the
Drager tube breaker #6400010. Use tube holders, if
available, to minimize the hazards of broken glass. Do
not use the charging inlet or the exhaust outlet of the
pump to break the ends of the tubes.

I:1-5
 After sampling, remove the glass stopper and stem from the
impinger or bubbler flask. Cap the impinger with the cap
supplied by the OR-OSHA Lab.

Figure I:1-4b. Incorrectly sealed “C” -Tube. End caps

can be removed and sample integrity jeopardized without
disturbing the seal.
Figure I:1-5. A typical glass bubbler.

CALIBRATION
CALIBRATION PROCEDURES Set up the calibration apparatus as shown in Figure I:1-8
and replace the cassette with the impinger or bubbler filled
Set up the calibration apparatus as shown in Figure I:1-8 with the amount of liquid reagent specified in the sampling
replacing the cassette with the solid sorbent tube to be used method. (Refer to the Chemical Information Manual.)
in the sampling (e.g., charcoal, silica gel, etc.). If a
sampling protocol requires the use of two charcoal tubes, Connect the tubing from the electronic bubble meter to the
the calibration train must include two charcoal tubes. The inlet of the impinger or bubbler.
air flow must be in the direction of the arrow on the tube.
Connect the outlet of the impinger or bubbler to the tubing
Calibrate the pump. to the pump.

MIDGET IMPINGERS AND BUBBLERS Calibrate the pump at a maximum flow rate of 1.0 L/min.

METHOD
MAILING
Take care in preparing bubblers and impingers to see that
frits or tips are not damaged and that joints can be securely Mail bulk samples and air samples separately to avoid
tightened. cross-contamination. Pack the samples securely to avoid
any rattle or shock damage (do not use expanded
If the impingers come empty add the specified amount of polystyrene packing). Use bubble sheeting as packing. Put
reagent supplied by the OR-OSHA Lab to the bubbler or identifying paperwork in every package. PRINT
impinger flask either in the office or at the sampling LEGIBLY ON ALL FORMS. See Section I, Chapter 4.
location. If flasks containing the reagent are transported,
caps must be placed on the bubbler or impinger stem and
side arm.

To prevent overflow, do not add over 10 ml of liquid to

the midget impingers or bubblers.

Collect contaminants in an impinger or bubbler at a

maximum flow rate of 1.0 L/min.

The impinger or bubbler is attached to the employee's

clothing using an impinger or bubbler holster. It is very
important that the impinger or bubbler does not tilt and
cause the reagent to flow down the side arm to the hose and
into the pump. Watch the reagent level to see that it does
not fall below ~ 5 milliliters. If it does remove the
impinger and replace it with another.

NOTE: Attach a trap in line to the pump, if possible.

I:1-6
VAPOR BADGES
Passive-diffusion sorbent badges, Figure I:1-6, are useful
for screening and monitoring certain chemical exposures,
especially vapors and gases. Few badges have been
validated for use in compliance.

Figure I:1-6. Vapor badge with a clothing clip.

Vapor badges are not currently used by OR-OSHA. The

volume of air sampled cannot be as accurately documented
as with sampling media which use pumps with calibrated
flow rates so greater SAE occurs than with other methods.

I:1-7
D. SPECIAL SAMPLING PROCEDURES

ASBESTOS Use a flow rate in the range of 0.5 to 2.5 L/min. Calibrate
pump before and after sampling. Calibration may be as in
Collect asbestos on a special 0.8 micrometer pore size, Figure I:1-9.
25-mm diameter mixed cellulose ester filter with a back-up
pad. Sample for as long a time as possible without overloading
(obscuring) the filter.
Use a fully conductive cassette with conductive extension
cowl, Figure I:1-7. Instruct the employee to avoid knocking the cassette and to
avoid using a compressed-air source that might dislodge
Sample open face in worker's breathing zone. the sample while sampling.

Ensure that the bottom joint (between the extension and the Submit 10% blanks, with a minimum in all cases of two
conical black piece) of the cassette is sealed tightly with a blanks.
shrink band or electrical tape. Point the open face of the
cassette down to minimize contamination. Where possible, collect and submit to the OR-OSHA lab a
bulk sample of the material suspected to be in the air.

Mail bulk sample and air samples separately to avoid

cross-contamination. Pack the samples securely to avoid
any rattle or shock damage (do not use expanded
polystyrene packing). Use bubble sheeting as packing. Put
identifying paperwork in every package. Use the Field and
Laboratory Analysis Report form. PRINT LEGIBLY ON
ALL FORMS.

For exceptional sampling conditions or high flow rates,

contact the OR-OSHA lab. More detailed instructions can
be obtained from the OR-OSHA lab.

Fig ure I:1-7. A

standard asbestos cassette (25 mm) sealed properly with an
OSHA-21 form.

SAMPLING FOR WELDING FUMES

inside the helmet, 25-mm filters and cassettes can be used.
See page I:1-5. Care must be taken not to overload the
When sampling for welding fumes, the filter cassette must
25-mm cassette when sampling.
be placed inside the welding helmet to obtain an accurate
measurement of the employee's exposure.
The OR-OSHA lab should be consulted in the case of
technical difficulties.
Welding fume samples are normally taken using 37-mm
filters and cassettes; however, if these cassettes will not fit

I:1-8
E. EQUIPMENT PREPARATION AND CALIBRATION

ALKALINE BATTERIES ELECTRONIC BUBBLE METER

METHOD
Replace alkaline batteries monthly. Keep fresh
replacement batteries with the equipment. Allow the pump to run five minutes prior to voltage check
and calibration.
RECHARGEABLE NI-CAD BATTERIES
If a cassette adaptor is used, care should be taken to ensure
Check the rechargeable Ni-Cad batteries before use. If that it does not come in contact with the back-up pad.
possible check the pumps under load (e.g., turn pump on
and check voltage at charging jack). This is only possible NOTE: When calibrating with a bubble meter, cassette
with the MSA Flowlite. The MSA Elf can be checked adaptors can cause moderate to severe pressure
through the charging jack with the pump off. The DuPont drop at high flow rates in the sampling train and
P4LC has to be disassembled to check the battery. The affect the calibration result. If adaptors are used
Gilians can be check through the battery charger, but only for sampling, they should also be used when
after a discharge and charge cycle. The SKC Pocket Pump calibrating.
and AirChek 2000 have battery status indicators on the
pump. CAUTION: Nylon adapters can restrict air flow due to
plugging. Stainless-steel adapters are
TIME OF CALIBRATION preferred.

Calibrate personal sampling pumps before and after each Connect the collection device, tubing, pump, and
day of sampling, using the electronic bubble-meter method. calibration apparatus as shown in Figure I:1-8 for the
cassette sampler and Figure I:1-9 for the cyclone sampler.

ELECTRONIC FLOW CALIBRATORS Visually inspect all Tygon tubing connections. Throw out
old or very dirty tubing.
These units are high-accuracy electronic bubble flow
meters that provide instantaneous air-flow readings and Wet the inside of the electronic flow cell with the soap
cumulative averaging of multiple samples. These solution supplied by pushing on the button several times.
calibrators measure the flow rate of gases and present the
results as volume per unit of time. Turn on the pump and adjust it to the appropriate flow rate.

These calibrators should be used to calibrate all

air-sampling pumps. Appendix I:1-2 provides more Press the button on the electronic bubble meter. Visually
information on this piece of equipment. capture a single bubble and electronically time the bubble.
The accompanying printer will automatically record the
calibration reading in liters per minute.
CALIBRATION
Repeat the step until two readings are within 5%.
When a sampling train requires an unusual combination of
sampling media (e.g., glass fiber filter preceding impinger), NOTE: When calibrating a pump a minimum of three
the same media and devices should be in line during electronically timed measurements should be taken.
calibration.

I:1-9
If necessary, adjust the pump while it is still running.

Repeat the procedures described above for all pumps to be MANUAL BURET BUBBLE METER METHOD
used for sampling. The same cassette and filter may be
used for calibrations involving the same sampling method. See Appendix I:1-3.

Figure
I:1-8. For calibration, the cassette is attached to an electric bubble meter.

Figure I:1-9. The cyclone is calibrated by placing the cyclone in a 1 liter vessel attached to an electronic bubble meter.

I:1-10
F. FILTER MEDIA
The filter media is 37-mm diameter, 5.0 micron low-ash
polyvinyl chloride or 0.8 micron polyvinyl chloride. The
5.0 micron PVC filters are used for silica (quartz) analysis,
and any other appropriate substance requiring gravimetric
analysis. The filters may be used without the cyclone
attached for total dust analyses. The 0.8 micron PVC
filters are used for metals or total particulates. Please
indicate on the Field and Laboratory Analysis Report form
all analysts of interest. The filter is mounted in a cassette
unit shown in Figure I:1-11.

Figure I:1-11. The Filter/cassette Unit

These filters are shipped pre-weighed and assembled in the
cassettes.

Be sure to follow all appropriate protocols for calibration,

sampling and submission of samples. A blank should be
included with every set of samples. It is very important
that the blank filter have the same date on it as the
samples. Visual observation of the airborne dust
concentration around the worker may assist in determining
how frequently to check the filter for
overloading.

I:1-11
G. FILTER WEIGHING PROCEDURE
The step-by-step procedure for weighing filters follows:

@ There shall be no smoking or eating in the

weighing area. All filters will be handled with
tongs or tweezers. Do not handle the filters with
bare hands.

@ Desiccate all filters at least 24 hours before

weighing and sampling. Change desiccant before it
completely changes color (i.e., before blue
desiccant turns pink).

@ Zero the balance prior to use to each weight.

@ Immediately prior to placement on the balance,

pass all filters over an ionization unit to remove
static charges. (After 12 months of use, return the
unit to the distributor for disposal.)

@ Weigh all filters at least twice.

@ If there is more than 0.005 mg difference in the two

weighings, repeat the zero and calibration and
reweigh.

@ If there is less than 0.005 mg difference in the two

weighings, average the weights for the final weight. Figure I:1-12. Exploded view of three-piece cassette
shows placement of backup pad.
@ Record all the appropriate weighing information (in
ink) in the Weighing Log. When weighing the filter after sampling, dessicate first and
include any loose material from an overloaded filter and
@ In reassembling the cassette assembly, remember to cassette.
add the unweighed backup pad, Figure I:1-12.
NOTE: At all times take care not to exert downward
pressure on the weighing pan(s). Such action may damage
the weighing mechanism.

I:1-12
H. BIBLIOGRAPHY

American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA). 1987. Lodge, J. P. Jr., Ed. 1988. Methods of Air Sampling and
Fundamentals of Analytical Procedures in Industrial Analysis. Lewis Publishers, Inc.: Chelsea, MA.
Hygiene. AIHA: Akron, OH.
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (
Hesketh, H. E. 1986. Fine Particles in Gaseous Media. (NIOSH). 1977. Occupational Exposure Sampling
Lewis Publishers, Inc.: Chelsea, MA. Strategy Manual. DHEW (NIOSH) Publication No.
77-173. U. S. Government Printing Office,
Lioy, P. J. 1989. Air Sampling Instruments for Evaluation Washington, D.C.
of Atmospheric Contaminants. American Conference of
Governmental Industrial Hygienists: Cincinnati. Occupational Safety and Health Administration, U.S.
Dept. of Labor. 1995. OSHA Computerized
Information System (OCIS) Chemical Sampling
Information. U. S. Government Printing Office:
Washington, D.C.

I:1-13
APPENDIX I:1-1. DETECTOR TUBES AND PUMPS

PRINCIPLE AND DESCRIPTION measurements may not reflect time-weighted average levels
of the hazardous substances present.
Detector tube pumps are portable equipment which, when
used with a variety of commercially available detector Detector tubes normally have a shelf life at 25E C of one to
tubes, are capable of measuring the concentrations of a two years. Refrigeration during storage lengthens the shelf
wide variety of compounds in industrial atmospheres. life. Outdated detector tubes (i.e., beyond the printed
expiration date) should never be used. The OR-OSHA lab
Operation consists of using the pump to draw a known can sometimes use these outdated tubes for training
volume of air through a detector tube designed to measure purposes.
the concentration of the substance of interest. The
concentration is determined by a colorimetric change of an PERFORMANCE DATA
indicator which is present in the tube contents.
Specific manufacturers' models of detector tubes are listed
Most detector tubes can be obtained locally. in the Chemical Information Manual. The specific tubes
listed are designed to cover a concentration range that is
APPLICATIONS AND LIMITATIONS near the PEL. Concentration ranges are tube-dependent
and can be anywhere from one-hundredth to several
Detector tubes and pumps are screening instruments which thousand ppm. The limits of detection depend on the
may be used to measure more than 200 organic and particular detector tube.
inorganic gases and vapors or for leak detection. Some
aerosols can also be measured. Accuracy ranges vary with each detector tube.

Detector tubes of a given brand are to be used only with a The pump may be hand-held during operation (weight
pump of the same brand. The tubes are calibrated 8-11 ounces), or it may be an automatic type (weight about
specifically for the same brand of pump and may give 4 pounds) that collects a sample using a preset number of
erroneous results if used with a pump of another brand. pump strokes. A full pump stroke for either type of
short-term pump has a volume of about 100 ml.
A limitation of many detector tubes is the lack of
specificity. Many indicators are not highly selective and In most cases where only one pump stroke is required,
can cross-react with other compounds. Manufacturers' sampling time is about one minute. Determinations for
manuals describe the effects of interfering contaminants. which more pump strokes are required take proportionately
longer.
Another important consideration is sampling time.
Detector tubes give only an instantaneous interpretation of Maintenance: Contact the OR-OSHA Laboratory for
environmental hazards. This may be beneficial in maintenance.
potentially dangerous situations or when ceiling exposure
determinations are sufficient. When long-term assessment LEAKAGE TEST
of occupational environments is necessary, short-term
detector-tube Each day prior to use, perform a pump leakage test by
inserting an unopened detector tube into the pump and

I:1-14
attempt to draw in 100 ml of air. After a few minutes, Record the calibration information required on the
check for pump leakage by examining pump compression Calibration Log (OSHA-93).
for bellows-type pumps or return to resting position for
piston-type pumps. Automatic pumps should be tested It may be necessary to clean or replace the rubber bung or
according to the manufacturer's instructions. tube holder if a large number of tubes have been taken with
any pump.
In the event of leakage which cannot be repaired in the
field, send the pump to the OR-OSHA Lab for repair. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Record that the leakage test was made on the DRAEGER, MODEL 31 (BELLOWS)
Direct-Reading Data Form (OSHA-93).
When checking the pump for leaks with an unopened tube,
CALIBRATION TEST (Laboratory ) the bellows should not be completely expanded after 10
minutes.
Calibrate the detector tube pump for proper volume
measurement at least yearly. MINE SAFETY APPLIANCES, SAMPLAIR PUMP,
MODEL A, PART NO. 46399 (PISTON)
Simply connect the pump directly to the bubble meter with
a detector tube in-line. Use a detector tube and pump from The pump contains a flow-rate control orifice protected by
the same manufacturer. a plastic filter which periodically needs to be cleaned or
replaced. To check the flow rate, the pump is connected to
Wet the inside of the 100 ml bubble meter with soap a buret and the piston is withdrawn to the 100-ml position
solution. with no tube in the tube holder. After 24-26 seconds, 80
ml of air should be admitted to the pump. Every 6 months
For volume calibration, experiment to get the soap bubble the piston should be relubricated with the oil provided.
even with the zero (0) ml mark of the buret.
SENSIDYNE-GASTEC, MODEL 800, PART NO.
For piston-type pumps, pull the pump handle all the way 7010657-1 (PISTON)
out(full pump stroke) and note where the soap bubble
stops; for bellows-type pumps, compress the bellows fully; When checking the pump for leaks with an unopened tube,
for automatic pumps, program the pump to take a full pump the pump handle should be pulled back to the 100-ml mark
stroke. For either type pump, the bubble should stop and locked. After 1 minutes, the handle should be released
between the 95 ml and 105 ml marks. Allow 4 minutes for carefully. It should return to a point < 6mm from zero or
the pump to draw the full amount of air (This time interval resting position. Periodic relubrication of the pump head,
varies with the type of detector tube being used in-line with the piston gasket, and the piston check valve is needed and
the calibration setup). is use-dependent.

Also check the volume for 50 ml (one-half pump stroke) SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS
and 25 ml (one-quarter pump stroke) if pertinent. As in
Section 1 above, + 5% error is permissible. If error is Detector tubes should be refrigerated when not in use to
greater than + 5%, the pump is need of repair and prolong shelf life.
recalibration.
Detector tubes should not be used when cold. They should
be kept at room temperature or in a shirt pocket for one
hour prior to use.

Lubrication of the piston pump may be required if volume

error is greater than 5%.

I:1-15
APPENDIX I:1-2. ELECTRONIC FLOW CALIBRATORS

DESCRIPTION SHIPPING AND HANDLING

These units are high-accuracy electronic bubble flowmeters When transporting, especially by air, it is important that
that provide instantaneous airflow readings and a one side of the seal tube which connects the inlet and outlet
cumulative averaging of multiple samples. These boss, be removed for equalizing internal pressure within
calibrators measure the flow rate of gases and report the calibrator.
volume per unit of time.
Do not transport unit with soap solution or storage tubing
The timer is capable of detecting a soap film at in place.
80-microsecond intervals. This speed allows under steady
flow conditions an accuracy of + 0.5% of any display PRECAUTIONS AND WARNINGS
reading. Repeatability is + 0.5% of any display.
Avoid the use of chemical solvents on flow cell, calibrator
The range with different cells is from 1 ml/min to 30 case and faceplate. Generally, soap and water will remove
L/min. any dirt.

Battery power will last 8 hours with continuous use. Never pressurize the flow cell at any time with more than
Charge for 16 hours. Can be operated from A/C charger. 25 inches of water pressure.

MAINTENANCE OF CALIBRATOR Do not charge batteries for longer than 16 hours.

CLEANING BEFORE USE Do not leave A/C adapter plugged into calibrator when not
in use as this could damage the battery supply.
Remove the flow cell and gently flush with tap water. The
acrylic flow cell can be easily scratched. Wipe with cloth Black close fitting covers help to reduce evaporation of
only. Do not allow the center tube, where the sensors soap in the flow cell when not in use.
detect soap film, to be scratched or get dirty. NEVER
clean with ACETONE. Use only soap and warm water. Do not store flow cell for a period of one week or longer
When cleaning prior to storage, allow flow cell to air dry. with soap. Clean and store dry.
If stubborn residue persists, it is possible to remove the
bottom plate. Squirt a few drops of soap into the slot The Calibrator Soap is a precisely concentrated and
between base and flow cell to ease removal. sterilized solution formulated to provide a clean,
frictionless soap film bubble over the wide, dynamic range
LEAK TESTING (Laboratory) of the calibrator. The sterile nature of the soap is important
in the prevention of residue build-up in the flow cell center
The system should be leak checked at 6" H2O by tube, which could cause inaccurate readings. The use of
connecting a manometer to the outlet boss and evacuate the any other soap is not recommended.
inlet to 6" H2O. No leakage should be observed.

VERIFICATION OF CALIBRATION (Laboratory)

The calibrator is factory calibrated using a standard

traceable to National Institute of Standards and
Technology, formerly called the National Bureau of
Standards, (NBS). Attempts to verify calibrator against a
glass one liter burette should be conducted at 1000 ml/min.
for maximum accuracy. The calibrator is linear throughout
the entire range.

I:1-16
APPENDIX I:1-3. MANUAL BURET BUBBLE METER
TECHNIQUE

When a sampling train requires an unusual combination of 5. Wet the inside of a 1-liter buret with a soap solution.
sampling media (e.g., glass fiber filter preceding impinger),
the same media/devices should be in line during 6. Turn on the pump and adjust the pump rotameter to the
calibration. Calibrate personal sampling pumps before and appropriate flow rate setting.
after each day of sampling.
7. Momentarily submerge the opening of the buret in
BUBBLE METER METHOD order to capture a film of soap.

1. Allow the pump to run 5 minutes prior to voltage check 8. Draw two or three bubbles up the buret in order to
and calibration. ensure that the bubbles will complete their run.

2. Assemble the polystyrene cassette filter holder using 9. Visually capture a single bubble and time the bubble
the appropriate filter for the sampling method. If a from 0 to 1000 ml for high flow pumps or 0 to 100 ml
cassette adaptor is used, care should be taken to ensure for low flow pumps.
that it does not come in contact with the back-up pad.
10. The timing accuracy must be within +1 second of the
NOTE: When calibrating with a bubble meter, the use time corresponding to the desired flow rate.
of cassette adaptors can cause moderate to severe
pressure drop in the sampling train, which will affect If the time is not within the range of accuracy, adjust the
the calibration result. If adaptors are used for flow rate and repeat steps 9 and 10 until the correct flow
sampling, then they should be used when calibrating. rate is achieved. Perform steps 9 and 10 at least twice, in
any event.
3. Connect the collection device, tubing, pump and While the pump is still running, mark the pump or record
calibration apparatus as shown in Figures I:1-12 and on the OSHA-91 the position of the center of the float in
I:1-13. the pump rotameter as a reference.

4. A visual inspection should be made of all Tygon tubing Repeat the procedures described above for all pumps to be
connections. used for sampling. The same cassette and filter may be
used for all calibrations involving the same sampling
method.

I:1-17
 Figure I:1-12. Calibration setup for personal sampling with filter cassette.

Figure I:1-13. Calibration of cyclone respirable-dust sampler using a bubble meter.

I:1-18
APPENDIX I:1-4. SHELF LIFE OF SAMPLING MEDIA
PROVIDED BY OR-OSHA Lab

Sampling medium Shelf Life Comments

Sodium hydroxide (all normalities) 6 months

Hydrochloric acid 1 year Same for all concentrations of all solutions.

Sulfuric acid
Methanol in water

Nitrogen oxides collection tubes Should be stored in a refrigerator.

Sampler for ozone 28 days Prepared on request*

(Nitrite-treated filter collection device)

MAMA reagent in toluene and MAMA 2 weeks Prepared on request*, Should be stored in
treated filter sampler for diisocyanates refrigerator.
(MDI, HDI, TDI, etc.)

* Please notify OR-OSHA Lab of need two days in advance to allow for preparation time.

I:1-19
APPENDIX I:1-5. SAMPLING FOR SPECIAL ANALYSES

CRYSTALINE SILICA SAMPLES presence of other substances in the workplace. The

following substances should be noted:
ANALYZED BY X-RAY DIFFRACTION
(XRD) @ Aluminum phosphate
@ Feldspars (microcline, orthoclase, plagioclase)
AIR SAMPLES @ Graphite
@ Iron carbide
Respirable dust samples for quartz, cristobalite, and @ Lead sulfate
tridymite are analyzed by X-ray diffraction (XRD). XRD @ Micas (biotite, muscovite)
is the preferred analytical method due to its sensitivity, @ Montmorillonite
minimum requirements for sample preparation and ability @ Potash
to identify polymorphs (different crystalline forms) of free @ Sillimanite
silica. @ Silver chloride
@ Talc
The analysis of crystalline free silica by XRD requires that @ Zircon (Zirconium silicate).
the particle size distribution of the samples be matched as
closely as possible to the standards. This is best Note: Specific additional chemicals should be listed on the
accomplished by collecting a respirable sample. Field and Laboratory Analysis Report Form if they are
suspected to be present.
@ Respirable dust samples are collected on a tared
low ash PVC filter using a 10-mm nylon cyclone at @ If heavy sample loading is noted during the
a flow rate of 1.7 L/min +/- 0.2 L/min. sampling period, it is recommended that the filter
cassette be changed to avoid collecting a sample
@ A sample not collected in this manner is considered with a weight greater than 5.0 milligrams.
a total dust (or nonrespirable) sample. CSHOs are
discouraged from submitting total dust samples Laboratory results for air samples are usually reported as
since an accurate analysis cannot be provided by follows:
XRD for such samples.
@ Percent Quartz (and/or Cristobalite). Applicable
@ If the sample collected is nonrespirable, the for a respirable sample in which the amount of
laboratory must be advised.(Nonrespirable quartz (or cristobalite) in the sample was
sampling is discouraged by the OR-OSHA lab) confirmed.
Quartz (also cristobalite and tridymite) is initially identified
- If the presence of quartz (or cristobalite) is
by its major (primary) X-ray diffraction peak. A few
suspected in this case, the Industrial Hygienist may
substances also have peaks near the same location, and it is
want to sample for a longer period of time to
necessary to confirm quartz (also cristobalite or tridymite)
increase the sample weights.
using secondary and/or tertiary peaks. To assist the analyst
in identifying interference, the CSHO should provide
information concerning potential

I:1-20
BULK SAMPLES The type of bulk sample submitted to the laboratory should
be stated on the Field and Laboratory Analysis Report form
Bulk samples should be submitted for all silica analyses, if and cross-referenced to the appropriate air samples.
possible.
A reported bulk sample analysis for quartz (also cristobalite
They have the following purposes: or tridymite) will be semiquantitative because:

@ To confirm the presence of quartz or cristobalite in @ error associated with bulk sampling;
respirable samples, or to assess the presence of
other substances that may interfere in the analysis @ the XRD analysis procedure requires a thin layer
of respirable samples. deposition for an accurate analysis; and

@ To determine the approximate percentage of quartz @ the error for bulk samples analyzed by XRD is
(or cristobalite) in the bulk sample. unknown because the particle size of nonrespirable
bulk samples varies from sample to sample.
@ To support Hazard Communication inspections.
SAMPLE CALCULATIONS FOR CRYSTALLINE
A bulk sample should be representative of the airborne free SILICA EXPOSURES
silica content of the work environment sampled.
Where the employee is exposed to combinations of silica
dust (i.e., quartz, cristobalite, and tridymite), the synergistic
The laboratory's order of preference for bulk samples for an effects of the mixture will be considered.
evaluation of personal exposure is:
For the PEL calculation specified in 29 CFR 1910.1000,
@ A high-volume respirable area sample. Table Z-3, the percent silica will be determined by doubling
the percentage of cristobalite and/or tridymite and adding it
@ A high-volume area sample. to the percentage of quartz, according to the following
formula. The PEL mixture pertains to the respirable
@ A representative settled-dust (rafter) sample. (This fraction.
is the most practical option. In certain operations it
may be very difficult to collect enough material
using high-volume sampling to be used as a bulk
sample.) 10 mg / m3
PEL =
% quartz + 2( % cristobalite) + 2( % tridymite) + 2
@ A bulk sample of the raw material used in the
manufacturing process (most practical if used for
Hazard Communication inspections).

I:1-21
This example does not include calculation using the SAE. Please contact the OR-OSHA lab for further information.

I:1-22
APPENDIX I:1-6. SAMPLING AND ANALYTICAL ERRORS (SAEs)
DEFINITION OF SAEs samples are taken over a period of time (as is the practice
of some employers), the CSHO should review the
When an employee is sampled and the results analyzed, the long-term pattern and compare it with the results. When
measured exposure will rarely be the same as the true OSHA's samples fit the long-term pattern, it helps to
exposure. This variation is due to sampling and analytical support the compliance determination. When OSHA's
errors, or SAEs. The total error depends on the combined results differ substantially from the historical pattern, the
effects of the contributing errors inherent in sampling, CSHO should investigate the cause of this difference and
analysis, and pump flow. perhaps conduct additional sampling.

DEFINITION OF CONFIDENCE LIMITS CONFIDENCE LIMITS

Error factors determined by statistical methods shall be One-sided confidence limits can be used to classify the
incorporated into the sample results to obtain the lowest measured exposure into one of three categories.
value that the true exposure could be (with a given degree
of confidence) and also the highest value the true exposure @ If the measured results do not exceed the standard
could be (also with some degree of confidence). and the UCL also does not exceed the standard, we
can be 95% confident that the employer is in
The lower value is called the lower confidence limit (LCL), compliance. (See Equation I:1-6E.)
and the upper value is the upper confidence limit (UCL).
These confidence limits are termed one-sided since the only @ If the measured exposure exceeds the PEL and the
concern is with being confident that the true exposure is on LCL of that exposure also exceeds the PEL, we can
one side of the PEL. be 95% confident that the employer is in
noncompliance, and a violation is established. (See
DETERMINING SAEs Equation I:1-6F.)

SAEs that provide a 95% confidence limit have been @ If the measured exposure does not exceed the PEL,
developed and are listed on each OR-OSHA Laboratory but the UCL of that exposure does exceed the PEL,
Report (most current SAEs). If there is no SAE listed in we cannot be 95% confident that the employer is in
the Report for a specific substance, call the OR-OSHA Lab. compliance. (See Equation I:1-6E.) Likewise, if
If using detector tubes or direct-reading instruments, use the measured exposure exceeds the PEL, but the
the SAEs provided by the manufacturer. LCL of that exposure is below the PEL, we cannot
be 95% confident that the employer is in
noncompliance. (See Equation I:1-6F.) In both of
ENVIRONMENTAL VARIABLES
these cases, the measured exposure can be termed a
"possible overexposure."
Environmental variables generally far exceed sampling and
analytical errors. Samples taken on a given day are used by
OSHA to determine compliance with PELs. However,
where

I:1-23
@ A violation is not established if the measured exposure @ Full-period, Consecutive Sampling.
is in the "possible overexposure" region. It should be Full-period, consecutive sampling is defined as
noted that the closer the LCL comes to exceeding the sampling using multiple consecutive samples of
PEL, the more probable it becomes that the employer is equal or unequal time duration which, if
in noncompliance. combined, equal the total duration of the sample
period. An example would be taking four 2-hour
@ If measured results are in this region, the CSHO charcoal tube samples. There are several
should consider further sampling, taking into advantages to this type of sampling.
consideration the seriousness of the hazard,
pending citations, and how close the LCL is to @ If a single sample is lost during the sampling
exceeding the PEL. period due to pump failure, gross contamination,
etc., at least some data will have been collected to
@ If further sampling is not conducted, or if evaluate the exposure.
additional measured exposures still fall into the
"possible overexposure" region, the CSHO should @ The use of multiple samples will result in slightly
carefully explain to the employer and employee lower sampling and analytical errors.
representative in the closing conference that the
exposed employee(s) may be overexposed but that @ Collection of several samples allows conclusions
there was insufficient data to document to be reached concerning the manner in which
noncompliance. The employer should be differing segments of the work day affect overall
encouraged to voluntarily reduce the exposure exposure.
and/or to conduct further sampling to assure that
exposures are not in excess of the standard. @ Grab Sampling. Grab sampling is defined as
collecting a number of short-term samples at
SAMPLING METHODS various times during the sample period which,
when combined, provide an estimate of exposure
The LCL and UCL are calculated differently depending over the total period. Common examples include
upon the type of sampling method used. Sampling the use of detector tubes or direct-reading
methods can be classified into one of three categories: instrumentation (with intermittent readings).

@ Full-period, Continuous Single Sampling. CALCULATIONS

Full-period, continuous single sampling is defined
as sampling over the entire sample period with only If the initial and final calibration flow rates are different, a
one sample. The sampling may be for a full-shift volume calculated using the highest flow rate should be
sample or for a short period ceiling determination. reported to the laboratory. If compliance is not established
using the lowest flow rate, further sampling should be
considered.

Generally, sampling is conducted at approximately the

same temperature and pressure as calibration, in which case
no correction for temperature and pressure is required

I:1-24
and the sample volume reported to the laboratory is the
volume actually measured. Where sampling is conducted
at a substantially different temperature or pressure than
calibration, an adjustment to the measured air volume may
be required depending on the sampling pump used, in order Equation I:1-6B
to obtain the actual air volume sampled.

The actual volume of air sampled at the sampling site is ppm(PT) =ppm(NTP) (760)/(P) (T)(298)
reported, and used in all calculations.
where:
@ For particulates, the laboratory reports mg/m3 of
contaminant using the actual volume of air P = sampling site pressure (mm of Hg)
collected at the sampling site. The value in mg/m3
can be compared directly to OSHA Toxic and T = sampling site temperature (EK)
Hazardous Substances Standards (e.g., 29 CFR
1910.1000). 298 = temperature in degrees Kelvin (273EK + 25E)

@ The laboratory normally does not measure

concentrations of gases and vapors directly in parts
per million (ppm). Rather, most analytical
techniques determine the total weight of
contaminant in collection medium. Using the air Equation I:1-6C
volume provided by the CSHO, the lab calculates
concentration in mg/m3 and converts this to ppm at since ppm(NTP) =mg/m3 (24.45)/(Mwt)
25EC and 760 mm Hg using Equation I:1-6A. This
result is to be compared with the PEL without ppm(PT) = mg/m3 X 24.45/Mwt X 760/P X/298
adjustment for temperature and pressure at the
sampling site.
NOTE: When a laboratory result is reported as mg/m3
Equation I:1-6A contaminant, concentrations expressed as ppm
(PT) cannot be compared directly to the
ppm(NTP)=mg/m3(24.45)/(Mwt) standards table without converting to NTP.
Where: NOTE: Barometric pressure can be obtained by calling
the local weather station or airport, request the
24.45 =molar volume at 25E C(298EK) and 760 mm Hg unadjusted barometric pressure. If these sources
are not available then a rule of thumb is: for
Mwt =molecular weight every 1000 feet of elevation, the barometric
pressure decreases by 1 inch of Hg.
NTP =Normal Temperature and Pressure at 25E C
and 760 mm Hg

@ If it is necessary to know the actual concentration

in ppm at the sampling site, it can be derived from
the laboratory results reported in ppm at NTP by
using the following equation:

I:1-25
CALCULATION METHOD FOR A SAMPLE CALCULATION FOR
FULL-PERIOD, CONTINUOUS SINGLE FULL-PERIOD, CONTINUOUS SINGLE
SAMPLE SAMPLE
Obtain the full-period sampling result (value X), the PEL A single fiberglass filter and personal pump were used to
and the SAE. The SAE can be obtained from the sample for carbaryl for a 7-hour period. The CSHO was
Laboratory Analysis Report. able to document that the exposure during the remaining
unsampled one-half hour of the 8-hour shift would equal
Divide X by the PEL to determine Y, the standardized the exposure measured during the 7-hour period. The
concentration. That is: laboratory reported 6.07 mg/m3. The SAE for this method
is 0.23. The PEL is 5.0 mg/m3.
Equation I:1-6D
Step 1. Calculate the standardized concentration.
Y = X/PEL
Y = 6.07/5.0 = 1.21

Step 2. Calculate confidence limits.

Compute the UCL (95%) as follows:
LCL = 1.21 - 0.23 = 0.98
Equation I:1-6E Since the LCL does not exceed 1.0, noncompliance is
not established. The UCL is calculated:
UCL (95%) = Y + SAE
UCL = 1.21 + 0.23 = 1.44

Compute the LCL (95%) as follows: Step 3. Classify the exposure.

Equation I:1-6F Since the LCL < 1.0 and the UCL > 1.0, classify as
possible overexposure.
LCL(95%) = Y - SAE

CALCULATION METHOD FOR

Classify the exposure according to the following
FULL-PERIOD CONSECUTIVE
classification system:
SAMPLING
@ If the UCL < 1, a violation does not exist.
The use of multiple consecutive samples will result in
@ If LCL < 1 and the UCL > 1, classify as possible slightly lower sampling and analytical errors than the use of
overexposure. one continuous sample since the inherent errors tend to
partially cancel each other. The mathematical calculations,
@ If LCL > 1, a violation exists. however, are somewhat more complicated. If preferred, the
CSHO may first determine if compliance or noncompliance
can be established using the calculation method noted for a
full-period, continuous, single-sample measurement. If
results fall into the "possible overexposure" region using
this method, a more exact calculation should be performed
using equation I:1-6G.

I:1-26
 Equation I:1-6G SAMPLE CALCULATION FOR
FULL-PERIOD CONSECUTIVE
@ Obtain X1, X2, ..., Xn, the n consecutive SAMPLING
concentrations on one workshift and their time
durations, T1, T2, ..., T. If two consecutive samples had been taken for carbaryl
instead of one continuous sample, and the following results
Also obtain the SAE in listed in the OSHA-91B were obtained:
sample report form
-- Sample --
@ Compute the TWA exposure. A B

@ Divide the TWA exposure by the PEL to find Y, Sampling rate (L/min) 2.0 2.0
the standardized average (TWA/PEL). Time (min) 240 210
Volume (L) 480 420
@ Compute the UCL (95%) as follows: Weight (mg) 3.005 2.457
Concentration (mg/m3) 6.26 5.85
UCL(95%) = Y + SAE (Equation I:1-6E)
The SAE for carbaryl is 0.23
@ Compute the LCL (95%) as follows:
Step 1. Calculate the UCL and the LCL from the sampling
LCL(95%) = Y - SAE (Equation I:1-6F) and analytical results:

( 6.26 mg / m3 ) 240 min + (5.85 mg / m3 ) 210 min

TWA =
450 min

Classify the exposure according to the following TWA = 6.07 mg / m3

classification system:

@ If UCL < 1, a violation does not exist. 6.07 mg / m3 6.07

Y= = = 1.21
PEL 5
@ If LCL 1, and the UCL > 1, classify as possible
overexposure. Assuming a continuous sample: LCL =1.21 - 0.23 =0.98

@ If LCL > 1, a violation exists. UCL = 1.21 + 0.23 = 1.44

When the LCL < 1.0 and UCL > 1.0, the results are in the Step 2. Since the LCL < 1.0 and UCL > 1.0, the results are
"possible overexposure" region and the CSHO must in the possible overexposure region, and the CSHO
analyze the data using the more exact calculation for must analyze the data using the more exact
full-period consecutive sampling, as follows: calculation for full-period consecutive sampling as
follows:
Equation I:1-6H

0.23 (240 min) 2 (6.26mg / m3 ) 2 + (210 min) 2 (5.85mg / m 3 ) 2

LCL = 121
. −
SAE T12 X12 2 2
+ T2 X2 K Tn X n 2 2
5.0mg / m3 (240 + 210 min)
LCL = Y −
PEL(T1 + T2 K Tn )
= 1.21 - 0.20 = 1.01

Since the LCL > 1.0, a violation is established.

I:1-27
GRAB SAMPLING Whether using a single standard or the mixture calculation,
the sampling and analytical error (SAE) of the individual
If a series of grab samples (e.g., detector tubes) is used to constituents must be considered before arriving at a final
determine compliance with either an 8-hour TWA limit or a compliance decision. These SAEs can be pooled and
ceiling limit, consult with the ARA for Technical Support weighted to give a control limit for the synergistic mixture.
regarding sampling strategy and the necessary statistical To illustrate this control limit, the following example using
treatment of the results obtained. the mixture calculation is shown:

The mixture calculation is expressed as:

SAEs FOR EXPOSURE TO CHEMICAL
MIXTURES

Often an employee is simultaneously exposed to a variety Equation I:1-6I.

of chemical substances in the workplace. Synergistic toxic
effects on a target organ is common for such exposures in Em = (C1/L1 + C2/L2) + ... Cn/Ln
many construction and manufacturing processes. This
type of exposure can also occur when impurities are present Where:
in single chemical operations. New permissible exposure
limits for mixtures, such as the recent welding fume Em = equivalent exposure for a mixture
standard (5 mg/m3), address the complex problem of (Em should be < 1 for compliance)
synergistic exposures and their health effects. In addition, C = concentration of a particular substance
29 CFR 1910.1000 contains a computational approach to L = PEL
assess exposure to a mixture. This calculation should be
used when components in the mixture pose a synergistic
threat to worker health.

For example, to calculate exposure to three

different but synergistic substances:

Material 8-hr. exposure 8-hr TWA PEL (ppm) SAE

Substance 1 500 1000 0.089

Substance 2 80 200 0.11
Substance 3 70 200 0.18

Using Equation I:1-6I: Em = 500/1000 + 80/200 + 70/200 = 1.25

Since Em > 1, an overexposure appears to have occurred; however, the SAE for each substance also needs to be considered:

@ Exposure ratio (for each substance) Yn = Cn/Ln

@ Ratio to total exposure R1 = Y1/Em, ...Rn = Yn/Em

The SAEs (95% confidence) of the substance comprising the mixture can be pooled by:

(RSt)2 = [(R1)2 (SAE1)2+(R2)2 (SAE2)2+ ... (Rn)2 (SAEn2]

I:1-28
The mixture Control Limit (CL) is equivalent to: 1 + RSt

If Em < CL, then an overexposure has not been established at the 95% confidence level; further sampling may be necessary.

If Em > 1 and Em > CL, then an overexposure has occurred (95% confidence).

Using the mixture data above:

Y1 = 500/1000 Y2 = 80/200 Y3 = 70/200

Y1 = 0.5 Y2 = 0.4 Y3 = 0.35
R1 = Y1/Em = 0.4 R2 = 0.32 R3 = 0.28

(RSt)2 = (0.4)2(0.089)2 + (0.32)2(0.11)2 + (0.28)2(0.18)2

RSt = [(RSt)2]1/2 = 0.071

CL = 1 + RSt = 1.071

Em = 1.25

Therefore Em > CL and an overexposure has occurred within 95% confidence limits. This calculation is also used when
considering a standard such as the one for total welding fumes.

I:1-29
SECTION I: CHAPTER 2

SAMPLING FOR
SURFACE CONTAMINATION
A. INTRODUCTION

Worksite analysis (i.e., hazard assessment) is a basic

component of an effective safety and health program. A A. Introduction..........................................I:2-1
complete worksite analysis requires the assessment of
surface contamination since workers may be exposed to B. General Technique
these contaminants directly through dermal and ingestive for Wipe Sampling........................I:2-5
routes (e.g., isocyanates, pesticides), and indirectly through
inhalation of contaminants that become re-entrained in the
C. Special Techniques
air (e.g., asbestos, lead).
for Wipe Sampling........................I:2-8
Dermal and ingestive routes of entry are much more
significant than inhalation for a large number of chemicals. D. Special Considerations.........................I:2-8
For example, a fifteen-minute exposure of the hands and
forearms to liquid glycol ethers [2-methoxy-ethanol (ME) E. Bibliography........................................I:2-9
and 2-ethoxy-ethanol (EE)] will result in a dose to the body
well in excess of the eight-hour inhalation dose at their Appendix 1:2-1. Template Samples
recommended air exposure limits. (Biological monitoring
That Cover 100 Square
for the urinary metabolites methoxyacetic acid and
ethoxyacetic acid was used to estimate the absorption via
Centimeters.................................I:2-10
skin and lung.) Unfortunately, many industrial hygienists
are only familiar with air sampling and fail to evaluate Appendix 1:2-2. Screening for
significant exposures caused by surface contamination. Carcinogenic Aromatic
Amines........................................I:2-11
Wipe sampling is an important tool of worksite analysis for
both identifying hazardous conditions, and in evaluating
the effectiveness of personal protective equipment,
housekeeping, and decontamination programs. As The uses of wipe sampling include:
described below, wipe sampling is an important tool for
assessing compliance with certain OSHA requirements @ Skin Sampling
even though there are few specific criteria for acceptable
surface contamination amounts. Evaluate potential contact with surface
contaminants by wiping surfaces that workers can
The terms wipe sampling, swipe sampling, and smear touch .
sampling are synonyms that describe the techniques used to
assess surface contamination. Wipe sampling will be used Skin wipes are not recommended for substances
in this chapter. that are absorbed rapidly through the skin.
Biological monitoring for these substances or their
Wipe sampling is most often used to determine the metabolites or biological markers is often the only
presence of asbestos, lead and other metals, aromatic means of assessing their absorption. Wipe the
amines, and PCBs. inside surfaces of protective gear and other surfaces
that may come into contact with skin.

@ Sampling of Surfaces

I:2-1
 substances that have a potential for ingestion toxicity, skin
Surfaces that may come into contact with food or absorption, and/or a hazardous effect on skin. This
other materials that are ingested or placed in the information may be found under the "Health" notation.
mouth (e.g., chewing tobacco, gum, cigarettes) may Additional toxicological information concerning chronic
be wipe sampled (including hands and fingers) to skin absorption, dermatitis, etc. should be used in
detect contamination. determining if the resulting exposure presents a potential
employee hazard (see Bibliography).
Contaminated smoking materials may allow toxic
materials or their combustion products to enter the The use of Surface Contamination Sampling in
body via the lungs (e.g., lead, mercury). Wiping of Evaluating Safety and Health Programs
surfaces that smoking materials may touch (e.g.,
hands, fingers) may be useful in evaluating this 29 CFR 1910.132 requires employers to "assess the
possible route of exposure. workplace to determine if hazards are present, or are likely
to be present, which necessitate the use of personal
Accumulated toxic materials can become suspended in air protective equipment (PPE)." To this purpose, wipe
and may contribute to airborne exposures (e.g., asbestos, sampling can be useful in categorizing work areas for
lead, or beryllium). Bulk and wipe samples may help certain types of controls, such as PPE and/or special
assess this possibility. cleaning and decontamination. It is also useful in assessing
the effectiveness of these controls, including proper work
@ Sampling of Personal Protective Equipment practices. Examples are provided below for three
generalized work areas: controlled areas that require the
Effectiveness of personal protective gear (e.g., use of PPE, controlled areas that require the use of special
gloves, aprons, respirators) may sometimes be cleaning and/or decontamination, and non-controlled work
evaluated by wipe sampling the inner surfaces of areas that require neither PPE or special cleaning.
the protective gear (and protected skin).
@ Controlled Work Areas Requiring PPE
Effectiveness of decontamination of surfaces and
protective gear (e.g., respirators) can sometimes be These are areas where it has been determined (e.g.,
evaluated by wipe sampling. from an employer's hazard assessment) that PPE is
necessary to prevent dermal exposures to a surface
When accompanied by close observation of the operation contaminant in spite of an aggressive, yet feasible
in question, wipe sampling can help identify sources of cleaning regimen. Many production areas and
contamination and poor work practices. specific job tasks fall into this category.

Evaluation of Sampling Results Wipe sampling can be used in assessing the

effectiveness of the PPE program. Many elements
@ False negative results, i.e., when surface of PPE programs are intended to prevent
contamination is not detected by a wipe sample, are contamination to certain locations, such as the use
possible. of gloves to prevent contamination to the skin of
the hands. Surface contamination found in those
@ The CSHO must use professional judgment on a "protected" locations usually indicates a problem
case by case basis when evaluating the significance with the program. For example, the presence of
of positive wipe-sampling results. surface contamination inside a glove is normally
the result of either PPE failure (e.g., the
@ When evaluating results, consider the toxicity and contaminate soaked through the glove material or a
the contribution of skin absorption and/or tear in the glove), and/or an improper work practice
gastrointestinal absorption to the total dose. for using the PPE, such as the worker inserting a
Additional factors are the ambient-air contaminated hand inside the glove. Additional
concentrations, skin irritation, etc. sampling and observation can be used to determine
the specific source of the program failure and
possible abatement (e.g., changing gloves more
often, checking for tears before donning, cleaning
The Chemical Information Manual or OCIS (the OSHA hands before donning, etc.). Sampling after
Computerized Information System on the Internet), lists abatement measures are implemented can be used

I:2-2
 to show the effectiveness of the abatement. of lead dust available for re-entrainment, but
significant lead contamination of the floor would
It is important to recognize that this sampling is not still be expected. An acceptable surface
attempting to assess the health risk resulting from contamination limit for this type of cleaning would
the contamination inside the glove. Rather, it is to be set much higher than a limit used to evaluate
identify failures in the PPE program. Therefore, the cleaning of tables in the break room.
criteria for concluding that contamination exists
does not need to be quantitative. Criteria and A few surface contamination concentration
reproducible procedures should be selected that guidelines have been published, but typically
provide confidence that contamination has not been concentration limits must be established by an
adequately controlled (i.e., contaminant levels are employer for a specific task. The limits should be
above background). The use of wipe pads that based on sufficient initial sampling to determine a
change color upon contact with the contaminant is "normal" range of contamination that can be
ideal both in locating contamination and as a visual expected after utilizing prescribed cleaning
tool in training workers on the consequences of procedures. It would be appropriate to include
poor work practices. documentation for the limits and their purpose, in
the worksite Safety and Health Program.
@ Controlled Work Areas Requiring Special
Cleaning @ Non-Controlled Work Areas

Wipe sampling in these areas can show that a These are work areas for which no special cleaning
feasible and practical regimen of special cleaning or PPE are required by the Safety and Health
and/or decontamination precludes the need for PPE Program. Examples of this category are office areas
or additional cleaning. The cleaning of lunch room that are physically separated from the production
tables, and the decontamination of equipment areas. These areas are often "assumed" to have no
before being removed from a restricted area are significant contamination. Wipe sampling is useful
examples of this category. Other examples include in demonstrating the lack of contamination. If
cleaning surfaces to reduce accumulation of toxic samples do show contamination, further
materials (e.g., asbestos, lead, beryllium) that may investigation would be needed to determine the
become re-suspended in air and thus contribute to cause. Consistent positive results would require a
airborne exposures. re-assessment of whether the area requires controls.

Wipe sampling is used in these areas as a quality As with sampling to evaluate PPE programs
control test of the specialized cleaning (or described above, procedures and criteria for
decontamination) regimen. Therefore, samples are sampling non-controlled areas need to provide
taken to assess contamination levels of those confidence that contamination has not occurred
surfaces for which the special cleaning is required. (i.e., surface concentrations are not above
Samples found in excess of an acceptable, background). Again, the use of wipe pads which
task-specific, surface contamination limit (see change color upon contact with the contaminant is
below) indicate a failure in the cleaning or ideal. The "direct reading" capability makes it
decontamination program. More aggressive training possible to quickly screen an entire work area (and
and supervision of the cleaning procedures and/or a single pad may be used for multiple locations
scheduling may need to be implemented. within the area).

Again, it is important to recognize that this Sample those locations within the non-controlled
sampling is not attempting to assess the health risk area that accumulate dust (e.g., tops of filing
resulting from the contamination. Rather, it is to cabinets), and surfaces that have potential for
ensure that the cleaning and decontamination contamination from production areas (e.g., paper
regimen is being effectively implemented. work brought in from the production areas).
Establishing an acceptable contamination limit will
depend on the purpose of the cleaning, and what is Additional surfaces to consider for sampling
feasible for the procedures utilized. For example, include those that may come into contact with food
periodic vacuuming of floor surfaces in a lead and other materials that are ingested or placed in
production area may be used to reduce the amount the mouth (e.g., chewing tobacco, gum, cigarettes).

I:2-3
 Contaminated smoking materials may allow toxic
materials or their combustion products (e.g., lead,
mercury) to enter the body via the lungs. Wiping of
surfaces that smoking materials may touch,
including the hands, may be useful in evaluating
this possible route of exposure.

@ Evaluation of Sampling Results

The investigator must use professional judgment on

a case-by-case basis when evaluating the
significance of wipe-sampling results. As described
above, acceptable surface contamination amounts
will vary widely for the same toxic agent depending
on the purpose and location of the sample. Any
concentration above background is sufficient to
identify a problem with the PPE program for some
sample locations.

When evaluating results, consider the toxicity and

the contribution of skin absorption and/or
gastrointestinal absorption to the total dose.
Additional factors are the ambient-air
concentrations, skin irritation, etc.

The OSHA Technical Links Internet site includes

Chemical Sampling Information which lists
substances that have a potential for ingestion
toxicity, skin absorption, and/or a hazardous effect
on skin. This information may be found under the
"Health" notation. Additional toxicological
information concerning chronic skin absorption,
dermatitis, etc. should be used in determining if the
resulting exposure presents a potential employee
hazard (see Bibliography and other references in
Technical Links).

B. GENERAL TECHNIQUE FOR WIPE SAMPLING

FILTER MEDIA AND SOLVENTS Consult the OR-OSHA Lab, the Chemical Information
Manual or OCIS (the OSHA Computerized Information

I:2-4
System on the Internet), for appropriate filter media and @ Polyvinyl chloride filters are available for
solvents. Dry wipes may be used. Solvents are not always substances which are unstable on paper-type filters.
necessary but may enhance removal.
@ Squares of a gauze material, available from the OR-
Direct skin wipes should not be taken when high skin OSHA Lab upon request, may be used for many
absorption of a substance is expected. Under no conditions organic substances, and have the advantage of
should any solvent other than distilled water be used on being more durable than filter media, especially
skin, personal protective gear that comes into direct contact when wiping rough surfaces. They may be used
with the skin, or surfaces that come into contact with food dry, or wetted with water or solvent to enhance
or tobacco products. collection efficiency.

Techniques and media for collection of wipe samples from @ Charcoal-impregnated pads may be useful for
surfaces vary with the agent and purpose of the sample. It is collection of volatile solvents from surfaces. They
recommended that the OR-OSHA Lab be consulted when work by trapping the solvent on activated charcoal,
selecting a sampling procedure for a specific chemical or similar to air sampling charcoal tubes.
contaminant.
@ In certain specialized cases, such as isocyanates
Classic wipe sampling techniques involve wiping a surface and aromatic amines, highly reactive and unstable
with a filter, which is then submitted to the OR-OSHA Lab compounds must be collected on a filter medium
for chemical analysis. that has been treated with a derivatizing reagent.
These are available from the OR-OSHA Lab.
Generally, two types of filters are recommended for taking
wipe samples: For a limited number of chemicals, direct-reading
colorimetric wipe sampling procedures are available for
@ Glass fiber filters (GFF) (37 mm) are usually used qualitative or semi-quantitative detection of surface
for materials that are analyzed by high- contaminants. These can be used for acids and bases,
performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and isocyanates, aromatic amines, organic solvents (not solvent
often for substances analyzed by gas specific), lead, platinum salts, explosives and hydrazine.
chromatography (GC). The OCIS or the Chemical Contact the OR-OSHA Lab for more information.
Information Manual specifies when GFFs are to be
used. For a variety of pesticides and certain other toxic
chemicals, immunoassay kits can provide qualitative or
@ Paper filters are generally used for metals. For semi-quantitative information on-site, and within about an
convenience, the Whatman smear tab (or its hour. Some wet chemistry is required. Contact the OR-
equivalent) or polyvinyl chloride filters for OSHA Lab for more information.
substance that are unstable on paper-type filters are
commonly used. (See the OCIS Chemical
Sampling Information on specific sampling and
analytical methods for details.)

I:2-5
Preloading a group of vials with appropriate filters is a poured back into a scintillation vial for shipment to
convenient method. (The Whatman smear tabs should be the laboratory.
inserted with the tab end out.) Always wear clean plastic
gloves when handling filters. Gloves should be disposable For a limited number of chemicals, direct-reading
and should not be powdered. colorimetric wipe sampling procedures are
available for qualitative or semi-quantitative
@ Sampling Skin for Contamination detection of contaminants. These can be used for
acids and bases, isocyanates, aromatic amines,
Techniques and media for wipe sampling of skin organic solvents (not solvent-specific), platinum
contamination vary with the agent and purpose of salts, and hydrazine. The technique differs from
the sample. It is recommended that the OR-OSHA that used for surface wipes. Contact the OR-OSHA
Lab be consulted when selecting a sampling Lab for more information.
procedure for a specific chemical or contaminant.
The same technology employed in the colorimetric
There are concerns related to direct wipe sampling wipe sampling procedures described above has
of the skin, including the possibility of promoting been applied to a band-aid-type format. These can
skin absorption with the use of certain solvents. be applied to the hands inside gloves to
Contact the OR-OSHA Lab prior to taking wipe demonstrate glove permeability or breakthrough.
samples directly on the skin to receive agent They can serve as an excellent tool in employee
specific procedures and precautions. Where training.
feasible, biological monitoring is often the most
effective means of assessing overall absorption of a PROCEDURE
contaminant, including through the skin.
Follow these procedures when taking wipe samples:
Before any skin wipe is taken, explain why you
want the sample and ask the employee about @ Preloading a group of vials with appropriate filters
possible skin allergies to the chemicals in the is a convenient method to carry the sample media
sampling medium or wetting solution. Employees to the worksite. (The smear tabs should be inserted
may elect not to allow sampling of their skin. with the tab end out.) Clean plastic gloves should
be worn when handling the filters. The gloves
As an alternative to direct skin sampling, an should not be powdered.
indirect measurement of skin contamination (as
well as PPE failure) can be assessed by wipe @ If multiple samples are to be taken at the worksite,
sampling surfaces that workers can touch (e.g., prepare a rough sketch of the area(s) or room(s) to
table tops, handles, control knobs, inside surfaces be wipe sampled.
of protective equipment).
@ Use a new set of clean, impervious gloves for each
Classic wipe sampling techniques as described sample to avoid contamination of the filter by the
earlier, employing glass fiber filters, mixed hand (and the possibility of false positives) and
cellulose ester filters or smear tabs, or gauze prevent contact with the substance.
squares, charcoal impregnated pads, may be used
for sampling contaminants on the skin. If it is @ Withdraw the filter from the vial. If a damp wipe
deemed desirable to moisten the collecting medium sample is desired, moisten the filter with distilled
to improve collection efficiency, procedures will water or other solvent as recommended in the
normally utilize distilled or de-ionized water, or a Chemical Information Manual.
50% solution of isopropyl alcohol in water.
@ Depending on the purpose of the sample, it may be
Hand washes may be appropriate in some cases. useful to determine the concentration of
Twenty ml of distilled or de-ionized water, or a contamination (e.g., in micrograms of agent per
dilute solution of mild soap may be added to a area). For these samples, it is necessary to record
zipper-style sandwich bag. The hand to be sampled the area of the surface wiped (e.g., 100 cm2). This
is inserted, and the bag held tightly closed around would normally not be necessary for samples taken
the wrist. After a few seconds of agitation, the hand to simply show the presence of the contaminant.
is carefully removed, and the wash solution is

I:2-6
@ Firm pressure should be applied when wiping.
@ Wipe a section of the surface to be sampled using a
@ Start at the outside edge and progress toward the template with an open area of exactly 100 cm2.
center of the surface area by wiping in concentric (See Appendix I:2-1.)
squares of decreasing size.
@ For surfaces smaller than 100 cm2 use a template
@ Some substances should have solvent added to the of the largest size possible. Be sure to document
vial as soon as the wipe sample is placed in the vial the size of the area wiped. For curved surfaces, the
(e.g., benzidine). These substances are indicated wiped area should be estimated as accurately as
with an "X" next to the solvent notation in the possible and then documented.
Technical Links Chemical Sampling Information
File. @ Maximum pressure should be applied when wiping.

CAUTION @ To ensure that all of the partitioned area is wiped,

start at the outside edge and progress toward the
Skin, personal protective equipment, or surfaces center by wiping in concentric squares of
that come into contact with food or tobacco decreasing size.
products must be wiped either DRY or with
distilled water, never with organic solvents. Skin @ If the filter dries out during the wiping procedure,
wipes should not be done for materials with high rewet the filter.
skin absorption. It is recommended that hands and
fingers be the only skin surfaces wiped. Before any @ Without allowing the filter to come into contact
skin wipe is taken, explain why you want the with any other surface, fold the filter with the
sample and ask the employee about possible skin exposed side in, then fold it over again. Place the
allergies to the chemicals in the sampling filter or filter in a sample vial, cap and number it, and note
medium. If the employee refuses, do not force the the number at the sample location on the sketch.
issue. Include notes with the sketch giving any further
description of the sample (e.g., "Fred Employee's
respirator, inside;" "Lunch table").

@ At least one blank filter treated in the same fashion,

but without wiping, should be submitted for each
sampled area.

@ Submit the samples to the OR-OSHA Lab with a

Field and Laboratory Analysis Report form.

I:2-7
C. SPECIAL TECHNIQUE FOR WIPE SAMPLING

ACIDS AND BASES DIRECT-READING INSTRUMENTS

When examining surfaces for contamination with strong For some types of surface contamination, direct-reading
acids or bases, (e.g., hydrochloric acid, sodium hydroxide), instruments may be used (e.g., mercury sniffer for
pH paper moistened with water may be used. However, mercury).
results should be viewed with caution due to potential
interference. AROMATIC AMINES
Screening may determine the precise areas of carcinogenic
aromatic amine contamination. This is an optional
procedure. (See Appendix I:2-2.)

D. SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS

Due to their volatility, most organic solvents are not Do not take surface wipe samples on skin if:
suitable for wipes. Other substances are not stable enough
as samples to be wipe sampled reliably. If necessary, judge @ OSHA or ACGIH shows a "skin" notation and the
surface contamination by other means, (e.g., by use of substance has a skin LD50 of 200 mg/kg or less, or
detector tubes, photoionization analyzers, or other similar an acute oral LD50 of 500 mg/kg or less; or
instruments). Consult OCIS or the Chemical Information
Manual. @ the substance is an irritant, causes dermatitis or
contact sensitization, or is termed corrosive.
Some substances should have solvent added to the vial as
soon as the wipe sample is placed in the vial (e.g.,
benzidine). These substances are indicated with an "X"
next to the solvent notation in the Chemical Information
Manual or OCIS.

I:2-8
E. BIBLIOGRAPHY

Adams, R. M. 1983. Occupational Skin Disease. New Fisher, A. A. 1986. Contact Dermatitis. Philadelphia: Lea
York: Grune and Stratton. and Febriger. 3rd ed.

Benezra, C. et al. 1982. Occupational Contact Dermatitis. Gellin, G. and H. I. Malbach. 1982. Occupational and
Clinical and Chemical Aspect. Philadelphia; Saunders. 1st Industrial Dermatology. Chicago: Year Book Medical
ed. Publisher.

Chaiyuth, C. and L. Levin. "A laboratory evaluation of Lees, P. S. J. et al. "Evidence for dermal absorption as the
wipe testing base on lead oxide surface contamination." major route of body entry during exposure of transformer
Am. Ind. Hyg. Assoc. J. 45:311-317,1984. maintenance and repairman to PCBs." Am. Ind. Hyg
Assoc. J. 48:257-264, 1987.
Clayton, G. D. and F. E. Clayton. 1981. Patty's Industrial
Hygiene and Toxicology. New York: John Wiley and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA),
Sons. Vol. II. U.S. Dept. of Labor. 1995. "OCIS Chemical Sampling
Information." Washington, D.C.

I:2-9
APPENDIX I:2-1. TEMPLATE SAMPLES THAT COVER
100 SQUARE CENTIMETERS

I:2-10
APPENDIX I:2-2. FLUORESCENT SCREENING FOR
CARCINOGENIC AROMATIC AMINES

As in the case of routine wipe sampling, wear clean, ALTERNATE SCREENING METHODS
disposable, impervious gloves. Wipe an area of exactly
100 cm2 with a sheet of filter paper moistened in the center FOR AROMATIC AMINES
with 5 drops of methanol.
The OR-OSHA Lab is testing commercially available kits
After wiping the sample area, apply 3 drops of with wipe pads that contain an aromatic amine indicator.
fluorescamine (a visualization reagent supplied by the OR- Preliminary evaluations show them to be an adequate
OSHA Lab upon request) to the contaminated area of the screening tool. Their detection limit is approximately 5.0
filter paper. mg/100 cm2. These kits are more convenient than the
fluorescent procedure outlined above, and they eliminate
Place a drop of the visualization reagent on an area of the the added hazard of handling fluorescamine. Kits will be
filter paper that has not come into contact with the surface. available for OSHA staff from OR-OSHA Lab.
This marks a nonsample area or blank on the filter paper
adjacent to the test area. The following compounds are among the suspected agents
that can be detected through this screening procedure:
After a reaction time of 6 minutes, irradiate the filter paper
with 366 nm ultraviolet light. methylene dianiline (MDA)
4,4'-methylene bis(2-chloroaniline)
Compare the color development of the sample area with the benzidine
nonsample or blank area. A positive reaction shows yellow a-napthylamine
discoloration that is darker than the yellow color of the b-napthylamine
fluorescamine blank. 4-aminobiphenyl
o-toluidine
A discoloration indicates surface contamination, possible aniline
aromatic amine carcinogen. Repeat a wipe sampling of the 2,4-toluenediamine
contaminated areas using the regular surface contamination 1,3-phenylenediamine
procedure. napthylenediamine
2,4-xylidine
The following compounds are some of the suspected o-chloroaniline
carcinogenic agents that can be detected by this screening 3,4-dichloroaniline
procedure: p-nitroaniline.

@ 4,4'-methylene bis(2-chloroaniline)
@ benzidine
@ a-napthylamine
@ ß-napthylamine
@ 4-aminobiphenyl.

I:2-11
SECTION I: CHAPTER 3

TECHNICAL EQUIPMENT
A. INTRODUCTION
The OR-OSHA Lab provides the overall management of
technical equipment, including calibration and
A. Introduction.................................................I:3-1 maintenance. Each person to whom technical equipment is
assigned is responsible for ensuring that the equipment is
B. Calibration...................................................I:3-2 properly maintained and calibrated according to Agency
schedules.
C. Batteries.......................................................I:3-3
This chapter discusses the types, calibration, maintenance,
and operation of equipment commonly used by OSHA
D. Adverse Conditions......................................I:3-4 compliance personnel in the field. It is not a
comprehensive discussion of all available equipment nor a
E. Direct-Reading Instruments........................I:3-5 review of technical equipment.

F. Bioaerosol Monitors.................................... I:3-8 Mention of a specific product is not meant to imply

approval or promotion by OSHA, but merely indicates past
procurement policy.
G. Radiation Monitors and Meters................. I:3-9
Some technical equipment can be connected to a computer
H. Air Velocity Monitors and Meters.............I:3-10 for calculations and print-outs. Consult the manufacturer's
manual or call the OR-OSHA Lab
I. Noise Monitors and Meters.........................I:3-11

J. Electrical Testing Meters............................I:3-13

K. Heat Stress Instruments.............................I:3-13

L. Bibliography...............................................I:3-14

Appendix 1:3-1. Calibration Intervals............I:3-15

Appendix 1:3-2. General Procedures

for Returning Instruments.................I:3-16

Appendix 1:3-3. Instrument Chart.................I:3-17

I:3-1
B. CALIBRATION

The OR-OSHA Lab calibrates and repairs equipment and

instruments, and it serves as a source of technical To be decontaminated.
information on instruments and measurement technology. Contaminated with
(name of compound)
SHIPPING INSTRUCTIONS
Equipment shall be packed and sent to OR-OSHA Lab POSTAL REGULATIONS
when repairs are necessary or calibration is due. Send all
parts of the instrument, not just those needing repairs. If Packages to be shipped by the postal service cannot exceed
the instrument needs repairs or any special attention, attach 100 inches in length plus girth or 40 pounds in weight. All
the Instrument Service Tag (see Figure I:3-1) to the markings (old registration, certification, addresses, etc.)
instrument stating the associated problem as clearly as must be removed from reused shipping containers or
possible. Call OR-OSHA Lab, if there are any questions. covered so that only new markings are visible.

@ Equipment needing regular calibration by OR- SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS

OSHA Lab is listed in Appendix I:3-1. Schedules
specific to each field office are issued monthly by Instruments requiring repair or special instructions must be
the OR-OSHA Lab. tagged with the symptoms of the malfunction and/or the
special instruction written on the tag. The special
_ List repairs needed and special instructions instructions in Appendix I:3-2 may apply. All toxic
on the Instrument Service Tag. Include materials must be marked and the carrier informed.
your name.

_ Place the equipment in a clean plastic bag. The OR-OSHA Lab may sometimes have specialized
Packing material should be polystyrene equipment such as ozone meters, portable gas
foam, polyurethane foam, or crumpled chromatographs, and radon and bioaerosol monitors
newspaper. Do not use vermiculite, available for field use. Contact OR-OSHA Lab for further
wood-chips, or other fibrous or powdery information.
material that may create fine dust, and
clog the instrument(s).

– Do not send in equipment which has been

contaminated. All contaminated equipment
should be decontaminated on-site after use.
If equipment must be sent in to the OR-
OSHA Lab after it has been
decontaminated, indicate such, including
what the equipment was contaminated with.
This information should be clearly shown
on the Instrument Service Tag.

_ After consultation with the OR-OSHA Lab,

equipment contaminated with toxic
chemicals must be double-wrapped in Figure I:3-1. Instrument Service Tag
plastic bags, and each bag sealed separately
with tape or twisted wire. A tag must be
attached to the outside bag with the words:

I:3-2
C. BATTERIES
ALKALINE BATTERIES Other Rechargeable Batteries

Replace frequently (once a month) or carry fresh Other types of rechargeable batteries are being used in
replacements. equipment such as lead-acid, nickel-metal hydride, etc.
Make sure the manufacturer's instructions are followed
concerning the handling and recharging of these types of
RECHARGEABLE NI-CAD batteries.
BATTERIES
The Care and Feeding of Battery Packs
Check the batteries under load (e.g., turn pump on and
check voltage at charging jack) before use. See NiCad Battery Packs in General:
manufacturers' instructions for locations to check voltage.
Use 1.3-1.4 volts per Ni-Cad cell for an estimate of the
fully charged voltage of a rechargeable battery pack. 1) Do not overcharge. In general 16 hours is the
maximum charge time.
It is undesirable to discharge a multicell Ni-Cad battery
pack to voltage levels that are 70% or less of its rated 2) Do not use NiCads when they are fully
voltage--doing this will drive a reverse current through discharged.
some of the cells and can permanently damage them.
When the voltage of the battery pack drops to 70% of its 3) Cycle at least once per month using the
rated value, it is considered depleted and should be
following sequence:
recharged.
a) Charge
Rechargeable Ni-Cad batteries should be charged only in b) Discharge
accordance with manufacturer's instructions. Chargers are c) Charge
generally designed to charge batteries quickly
(approximately 8 to 16 hours) at a high charge rate or 4) Do not store them in an uncharged state.
slowly (trickle charge). A battery can be overcharged and
ruined when a high charge rate is applied for too long a 5) Charge fully before each use.
time. However, Ni-Cad batteries may be left on trickle
charge indefinitely to maintain them at peak capacity. In
this case, discharging for a period equal to the longest 6) Charge them for at least twice as long as they
effective field service time may be necessary, because of were used (example: if the batteries are used for four
short-term memory imprinting. hours charge them for eight hours)

- Battery care is important in assuring uninterrupted

sampling. A pump battery pack, for example, Pump Specific Information
should be discharged to the recommended level
before charging, at least once a month. If the pump
MSA Escort ELF:
is allowed to run down until the battery reaches the
low battery Fault condition, the pump should be
turned OFF soon after the Fault condition stops the 1) Charge at least 14 to 16 hours. Continuous
pump. Leaving some pumps ON for a long time charging for longer periods will not reduce battery
after this Fault condition can damage the battery life as long as it is done at room temperature.
pack. Also, avoid overcharging the battery pack.
2) Use only Omega chargers from MSA.

I:3-3
DuPont P4LC 3) Do not overcharge. Continuous charging for
more than 16 hours at the maximum charge rate will
1) When the battery pack is on the pump the shorten the battery life, however the batteries can
charger charges the battery at regular charge (the tolerate occasional weekend charging.
pump says "chrg" on its LCD) for 14 hours and then
switches to trickle charge (the LCD says "tric"). If 4) Use only Alpha-1 or Multichargers to charge
the charging cycle is interrupted during any portion the batteries.
of the 14 hours the cycle starts over on regular
charge. 5) New NiCad batteries should be run for three
charge/discharge cycles.
2) If the battery pack is charged separately from
the pump the charger has to be manually switched
from regular charge to trickle charge after 14 hours.

D. ADVERSE CONDITIONS
ATMOSPHERES CONTAINING
ADVERSE TEMPERATURE EFFECTS CARCINOGENS
High ambient temperature, above 100E F and/or radiant A plastic bag should be used to cover equipment when
heat (e.g., from nearby molten metal) can cause flow faults carcinogens are present.
in air sampling pumps.
Decontamination procedures for special environments are
If these conditions are likely, contact the OR-OSHA lab for available through the Manager of the OR-OSHA Lab and
recommendations on which pump to use. should be followed after using equipment in carcinogenic
environments.
EXPLOSIVE ATMOSPHERES
Instruments shall not be used in atmospheres where the
potential for explosion exists (see 29 CFR 1910.307)
unless the instrument is intrinsically safe or certified by the
Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA),
Underwriter's Laboratory (UL), Factory Mutual (FM) or
other testing laboratory recognized by OSHA for the type
of atmosphere present.

When batteries are being replaced, use only the type of

battery specified on the safety approval label.

Do not assume that an instrument is intrinsically safe.

Verify by contacting the instrument's maker or the OR-
OSHA Lab, if uncertain.

I:3-4
E. DIRECT-READING INSTRUMENTS
MERCURY ANALYZER-GOLD FILM TOXIC GAS METERS
ANALYZER
DESCRIPTION AND APPLICATION
DESCRIPTION AND APPLICATION
This analyzer uses an electrochemical voltametric sensor or
A gold-film analyzer draws a precise volume of air over a polarographic cell to provide continuous analyses and
gold-film sensor. A microprocessor computes the electronic recording.
concentration of mercury in milligrams per cubic meter and
displays the results on the digital meter. In operation, sample gas is drawn through the sensor and
absorbed on an electrocatalytic sensing electrode, after
The meter is selective for mercury and eliminates passing through a diffusion medium. An electrochemical
interference from water vapor, sulfur dioxide, aromatic reaction generates an electric current directly proportional
hydrocarbons, and particulates. to the gas concentration. The sample concentration is
displayed directly in parts per million. Since the method of
CALIBRATION analysis is not absolute, prior calibration against a known
standard is required. Exhaustive tests have shown the
Calibration should be performed by the manufacturer or a method to be linear; thus, calibration at a single
laboratory with the special facilities to generate known concentration is sufficient.
concentrations of mercury vapor. Types-Sulfur dioxide, hydrogen cyanide, hydrogen
chloride, hydrazine, carbon monoxide, hydrogen sulfide,
Instruments should be returned to the manufacturer or a nitrogen oxides, chlorine, ethylene oxide, formaldehyde.
calibration laboratory on a scheduled basis. Can be combined with combustible gas and oxygen meters.

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS CALIBRATION

In high concentrations of mercury vapor the gold film Calibrate the direct-reading gas monitor before and after
saturates quickly. It should not be used for concentrations each use in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions
expected to be over 1.5 milligrams per cubic meter. and with the appropriate calibration gas.
Hydrogen sulfide is an interferent.
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS
MAINTENANCE
Interference from other gases can be a problem. See
Mercury vapor instruments generally contain rechargeable manufacturer literature.
battery packs, filter medium, pumps and valves which
require periodic maintenance. When calibrating under external pressure, the pump must
be disconnected from the sensor to avoid sensor damage. If
Except for routine charging of the battery pack, most the span gas is directly fed into the instrument from a
periodic maintenance will be performed during the regulated pressurized cylinder, the flow rate should be set
scheduled annual calibrations. to match the normal sampling rate.

Due to the high reaction rate of the gas in the sensor,

substantially lower flow rates result in lower readings. This
high reaction rate makes rapid fall time possible simply by
shutting off the pump. Calibration from a sample bag
connected to the instrument is the preferred method.

I:3-5
PHOTOIONIZATION METERS INFRARED ANALYZERS
DESCRIPTION AND APPLICATIONS DESCRIPTION AND APPLICATIONS

Ionization is based upon making a gas conductive by the The infrared analyzer has been used within OSHA as a
creation of electrically charged atoms, molecules, or screening tool for a number of gases and vapors (contact
electrons and the collection of these charged particles under the OR-OSHA Lab) and is presently the recommended
the influence of an applied electric field. screening method for substances with no feasible sampling
and an analytical method. See the Chemical Information
The photoionization analyzer is a screening instrument Manual or OCIS for specific substances.
used to measure a wide variety of organic and some
inorganic compounds. It is also useful as a leak detector. These analyzers are often factory-programmed to measure
many gases and are also user-programmable to measure
The limit of detection for most contaminants is other gases.
approximately 1.0 ppm.
A microprocessor automatically controls the spectrometer,
CALIBRATION averages the measurement signal, and calculates
absorbance values. Analysis results can be displayed either
A rapid procedure for calibration can be done using the in parts per million (ppm) or absorbance units (AU).
manufacturer’s instructions and isobutylene gas.
The variable path-length gas cell gives the analyzer the
For precise analyses it is necessary to calibrate the capability of measuring concentration levels from below 1
instrument with the specific compound of interest. The ppm up to percent levels.
calibration gas should be prepared in air.
Some typical screening applications are:
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS
@ anesthetic gases including, e.g., nitrous oxide,
The specificity of the instrument depends on the sensitivity halothane, enflurane, penthrane, and isoflurane;
of the detector to the substance being measured, the
number of interfering compounds present, and the CALIBRATION
concentration of the substance being measured relative to
any interferences. The analyzer should be calibrated before and after each use
in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
Some instruments are approved by Factory Mutual to meet
the safety requirements of Class 1, Division 2, hazardous SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS
locations of the National Electrical Code.
The infrared analyzer may be only semispecific for
MAINTENANCE sampling some gases and vapors because of interference by
other chemicals with similar absorption wavelengths.
Keeping these instruments in top operating shape means
charging the battery, cleaning the ultraviolet lamp window MAINTENANCE
and light source, and replacing the dust filter.
No field maintenance of this device should be attempted
The exterior of the instrument can be wiped clean with a except items specifically detailed in the instruction book
damp cloth and mild detergent if necessary. Keep the cloth such as filter replacements and battery charging.
away from the sample inlet, however, and do not attempt to
clean while the instrument is connected to line power.

I:3-6
MULTI-GAS METERS Special Considerations

DESCRIPTION AND APPLICATIONS Silicone compound vapors, leaded gasoline, and sulfur
compounds will cause desensitization of the combustible
These meters use a platinum element as an oxidizing sensor and produce erroneous (low) readings.
catalyst for combustiblity testing. The platinum element is
one leg of a Wheatstone bridge circuit. These meters
measure gas concentration as a percentage of the lower High relative humidity (90%-100%) causes hydroxylation,
explosive limit of the calibrated gas. which reduces sensitivity and causes erratic behavior
including inability to calibrate.
The oxygen meter displays the concentration of oxygen in
percent by volume measured with a galvanic cell. Oxygen deficiency or enrichment such as in steam or inert
atmospheres will cause erroneous readings for combustible
Other electrochemical sensors are available to measure gases.
carbon monoxide, hydrogen sulfide, and other toxic gases.
In drying ovens or unusually hot locations, solvent vapors
Some units have an audible alarm that warns of low oxygen with high boiling points may condense in the sampling
levels or malfunction. lines and produce erroneous (low) readings.

CALIBRATION High concentrations of chlorinated hydrocarbons such as

trichloroethylene or acid gases such as sulfur dioxide will
Before using the monitor each day, calibrate the instrument depress the meter reading in the presence of a high
to a known concentration of the gas your are measuring. concentration of combustible gas.
The unit's instruction manual provides additional details on
calibration of sensors. High-molecular-weight alcohols can burn out the meter's
filaments.
The monitor must be calibrated to the altitude at which it
will be used. Changes in total atmospheric pressure from If the flash point is greater than the ambient temperature, an
changes in altitude will influence the instrument's erroneous (low) concentration will be indicated. If the
measurement of the air's oxygen content. closed vessel is then heated by welding or cutting, the
vapors will increase and the atmosphere may become
explosive.

For gases and vapors other than those for which a device
was calibrated, users should consult the manufacturer's
instructions and correction curves.

MAINTENANCE

The instrument requires no short-term maintenance other

than regular calibration and recharging of batteries.

Use a soft cloth to wipe dirt, oil, moisture, or foreign

material from the instrument.

I:3-7
F. BIOAEROSOL MONITORS
CALIBRATION
DESCRIPTION AND APPLICATIONS Bioaerosol meters must be calibrated before use. This can
be done using an electronic calibration system with a
A bioaerosol meter, usually a two-stage sampler, is also a high-flow cell, available through the OR-OSHA Lab.
multiorifice cascade impactor. This unit is used when size
distribution is not required and only
respirable-nonrespirable segregation or total counts are
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS
needed.
Prior to sampling, determine the type of collection media
Ninety-five to 100% of viable particles above 0.8 microns required and an analytical laboratory. The OR-OSHA Lab
in an aerosol can be collected on a variety of can provide this information.
bacteriological agar. Trypticase soy agar is normally used
to collect bacteria and malt extract agar is normally use to This specialized equipment is available from the OR-
collect fungi. They can be used in assessing sick-(tight-) OSHA Lab with accompanying instructions.
building syndrome and mass psychogenic illness.

These samplers are also capable of collecting virus MAINTENANCE

particles. However, there is no convenient, practical
method for cultivation and enumeration of these particles. The sampler should be decontaminated prior to use by
sterilizer or chemical decontamination with isopropanol.

I:3-8
G. RADIATION MONITORS AND METERS
LIGHT SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS

DESCRIPTION AND APPLICATIONS Exposure of the photomultiplier to bright illumination

when the power is applied can damage the sensitive
The light meter is a portable unit designed to measure cathode or conduct excessive current.
visible, UV, and near-UV light in the workplace. A series
of interchangeable filters and diffusers with a hand-held MAINTENANCE
photodetector measure workers' exposure to light in the
near-UV range (320-400 nm), the normal range, and in the Little maintenance is required unless the unit is subjected
actinic UV range (200-315 nm). to extreme conditions of corrosion or temperature. Clean
the optical unit with lens paper to avoid scratching.
The light meter is capable of reading any optical unit of
energy or power level if the appropriate detector has been Detector heads should be recalibrated annually by the
calibrated with the meter. The spectral range of the manufacturer only. All calibrations are NIST traceable.
instrument is limited only by the choice of detector.
The nickel-cadmium batteries can be recharged. Avoid
Steady-state measurements can be made from a steady- overcharging, which will reduce battery life.
state source using the "normal operation" mode. Average
measurements can be obtained from a flickering or
modulated light source with the meter set in the "fast
function" position. Flash measurements can be measured
using the "integrate" function.

CALIBRATION

No field calibration is available. These instruments are

generally very stable and require only periodic calibration
at a laboratory.

I:3-9
NONIONIZING RADIATION CALIBRATION

DESCRIPTION AND APPLICATIONS No field calibration is available. Annual calibration by the

factory is essential.
Broad-band field strength meters are available for
measuring electromagnetic radiation in the frequency range SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS
from 0.5 MHz to 6000 MHz. Each meter comes with
probes for measuring either magnetic or electric field All units have automatic zeroing. There is no need to place
strength, batteries, headset, and carrying case. the unit in a zero-field condition to zero it.

This unit is designed for laboratory and field use to All units have a peak memory-hold circuit that retains the
measure magnetic and electric fields near RF induction highest reading in memory.
heaters, RF heat sealers, radio and TV antennas, or any
other radio frequency sources. All units operate with either electric (E) or magnetic (H)
field probes based on diode-dipole antenna design. Total
field strength is measured at the meter regardless of the
field orientation or probe receiving angle. The
diode-dipole antenna design of the probe is much more
resistant to burnout from overload than the thermocouple
design of probes used with other meters.

MAINTENANCE

No field maintenance is required other than battery-pack

charging or replacement.

H. AIR VELOCITY MONITORS AND METERS

THERMOANEMOMETER
FLOW HOODS
DESCRIPTION AND APPLICATIONS
DESCRIPTION AND APPLICATIONS
These instruments monitor the effectiveness of ventilation
These instruments measure air velocities at air supply or by measuring air velocities.
exhaust outlets.
CALIBRATION
CALIBRATION
No field calibration is available. Yearly calibration by OR-
No field calibration is available. Yearly calibration by a OSHA Lab is essential.
laboratory is essential.
MAINTENANCE

MAINTENANCE These typically require little field maintenance other than

battery-pack servicing and zero balancing of analog scales.
These typically require little field maintenance other than (Check manufacturer's manual.)
battery-pack servicing and zero balancing of analog scales.
(Check manufacturer's manual.)
OTHER VELOMETERS
Other velometers include rotating-vane and swinging vane
velometers.

Note: Barometric pressure and air temperature should be

noted when using air velocity meters.

I:3-10
I. NOISE MONITORS AND METERS
SOUND LEVEL METERS AND SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS
DOSIMETERS Always check the batteries prior to use. Use the
microphone windscreen to protect the microphone when
DESCRIPTION AND APPLICATIONS the wearer will be outdoors or in dusty or dirty areas. (The
windscreen will not protect the microphone from rain or
The sound level meter is a lightweight instrument for the extreme humidity.)
measurement of sound pressure level (SPL) in decibels.
Never use any other type of covering over the microphone
All ANSI-approved meters meet minimum requirements (e.g., plastic bag or plastic wrap) to protect it from
that include an A-weighted network, a slow-response meter moisture. These materials will distort the noise pickup, and
characteristic, and a fully graduated scale with the readings will be invalid.
measurements ranging from 80 to 130 dBA.
Never try to clean a microphone, particularly with
The Type II meter is most frequently used. Applications compressed air, since damage is likely to result. Although
are in worker exposure and noise evaluations. dirt and exposure will damage microphones, regular use of
an acoustical calibrator will detect such damage so that the
Octave Band Analyzer. Some sound level meters may have microphones can be replaced.
an octave or one-third octave band filter attached or
integrated into the instrument. The filters are used to Remove the batteries from any meter that will be stored for
analyze the frequency content of noise. They are also more than 5 days. Protect meters from extreme heat and
valuable for the calibration of audiometers and to humidity.
determine the suitability of various types of noise control.
MAINTENANCE
CALIBRATION
No field maintenance is required other than replacement of
In normal operation, calibration of the instrument usually batteries.
requires only checking. Prior to and immediately after
taking measurements, check the sound level of the
instrument with a calibrator. As long as the sound level
readout is within 0.2 dB of the known source, it is
suggested that no adjustments to the calibration pot be
made. If large fluctuations in the level occur (more than 1
dB),then either the calibrator or the instrument may have a
problem.

Send the meter to the OR-OSHA Lab yearly for a thorough

calibration.

I:3-11
PERSONAL DOSIMETERS OCTAVE BAND ANALYZERS
DESCRIPTION AND APPLICATIONS DESCRIPTION AND APPLICATIONS

These meters can be worn by personnel to obtain individual This instrument is used to make precise sound-level
readings of noise exposure. measurements and analyze the levels into octave bands
using an octave band filter network. It is also valuable for
Typical dosimeters consist of a pocket-sized monitor with the calibration of audiometers and to determine sources of
remote microphone and an indicator for readout of noise contamination for possible control.
exposure data. Some have a preset threshold; others have a
selector switch that may be preset. CALIBRATION

CALIBRATION Field calibrate at the measurement site according to the

manufacturer's instructions before and after each use.
Field calibrate at the measurement site according to the
manufacturer's instructions both before and after each use. Use an acoustical calibrator designed for use with the
model octave-band analyzer being used.
Use an acoustical calibrator that was designed to be used
with the particular model noise dosimeter being used. SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS

Send the meter to the OR-OSHA Lab yearly for a thorough Always check the batteries prior to use.
calibration.
Use the microphone windscreen to protect the microphone
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS when the meter will be outdoors or in dusty or dirty areas.
(The windscreen will not protect the microphone from rain
Always check the batteries prior to use. or extreme humidity.)

Be very careful with the microphone cable. Never kink, Never use any type of covering over the microphone (e.g.,
stretch, pinch, or otherwise damage the cable. plastic bag or plastic wrap) to try to protect it from
moisture. Such materials will distort the noise pickup, and
Use the microphone windscreen to protect the microphone readings will be invalid.
when the wearer will be outdoors or in dusty or dirty areas.
(The windscreen will not protect the microphone from rain Never try to clean a microphone, particularly with
or extreme humidity.) compressed air, since damage is likely to result. Although
dirt and exposure to industrial environments will damage
Never use any type of covering over the microphone (e.g., the microphones, regular use of an acoustical calibrator will
plastic bag or plastic wrap) to protect it from moisture. detect such damage so that the microphones can be
Such materials will distort the noise pickup, and the replaced.
readings will be invalid.
Remove the batteries when the dosimeter will be stored for
Never try to clean a microphone, particularly with more than 5 days. Protect dosimeters from extreme heat
compressed air, since damage is likely to result. Although and humidity.
dirt and exposure to industrial environments will damage
the microphones, regular use of an acoustical calibrator will MAINTENANCE
detect such damage so that microphones can be replaced.
No field maintenance is required other than replacement of
Remove the batteries when the dosimeter will be stored for batteries.
more than 5 days. Protect dosimeters from extreme heat
and humidity.

MAINTENANCE

No field maintenance is required other than replacement of

batteries.

I:3-12
J. ELECTRICAL TESTING METERS

DESCRIPTION AND APPLICATIONS Other specialized equipment is described in Appendix

I:3-3.
Electrical testing meters include multimeters, clip-on
current meters, megohmmeters, battery testers, ground- CALIBRATION
wire impedance testers, 120-V AC receptacle testers,
ground fault interrupt testers, electrostatic meters, and AC Few, if any, field calibrations are available. Check
voltage detectors. manufacturer's manual. Send the meter to the laboratory
yearly for calibration
Multimeters can check for AC leakage, proper line voltage,
batteries, continuity, ground connection, integrity of MAINTENANCE
shielded connections, fuses, etc.
No field maintenance is required other than battery-pack
servicing.

K. HEAT STRESS INSTRUMENTS

DESCRIPTION AND APPLICATIONS CALIBRATION

Heat-stress monitors are portable instruments used to Send the instrument to the OR-OSHA laboratory yearly for
measure environmental factors that may cause heat-related calibration..
injuries.
MAINTENANCE
Personal heat-stress monitors measure body temperature
and sometimes heartbeat through sensor belts around the Some field servicing is required (check manufacturer's
chest or ear-canal sensors. manual).

I:3-13
L. BIBLIOGRAPHY

A. M. Best Co. (AMB). 1990. Best's Safety Directory. Hering, S. V., Ed. 1989. Air Sampling Instruments for
AMB: Odwick, NJ. Evaluation of Atmospheric Contaminants. American
Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists:
Cincinnati, Ohio

I:3-14
APPENDIX I:3-1. CALIBRATION INTERVALS

Instrument Interval
(years)
Combustible gas indicators
Bacharach TLV 1

Electrical Testers
Woodhead GLIT 1

Flowmeters

Gilibrator 1
Buck 1

Heat stress monitors

Reuter Stokes RSS-214 1
Vista 1

Nonionizing radiation meters

Holiday Meters & Probes 1

Pumps (hand)
Draeger 1
Gastech 1
Sensidyne 1

Pumps (high volume)

Staplex

Pumps (personal)
Dupont P4LC 1
Gilian HFS 113A 1
Gilian HFS 513A 1
Gilian LFS 113 1
MSA FlowlLite 1
MSA Low Flow C-210 1
SKC Air Check 2000 1
SKC Air Check 52 1
SKC Pocket Pump 1

Sound Instruments
All sounds instruments 1

Toxic gas monitors

Bacharach Mercury Vapor Meter 1
HNU PI-101 Photoionization Meter
Jerome 411 Mercury Vapor Meter 1
Mini Rae PID

Velocity meters
Kurz 441 and 441S 1
TSI 8357 1

I:3-15
 APPENDIX I:3-2. GENERAL PROCEDURES FOR SENDING
INSTRUMENTS TO THE OR-OSHA LAB

Never use a carrying case like a shipping case. Carrying

cases should be carefully stuffed to avoid any instrument
movement during shipping and securely packed in a
cardboard box.

All Hot Wire Anemometers: Return with their probes.

Instrument and probe serial numbers are usually the same.

SKC, Gilian, MSA and DuPont Pumps: Return with

battery packs. Several types of battery packs can be
repaired.

If instrument is shipped with batteries or battery pack

inside, turn off all switches.

All Sound Level Meters: Send all microphones, both 1"

and ½", and all attenuators with the instruments.

Any instrument with gauges, meters, glass or plastic parts

exposed should have special protection over or around
these parts before final packing for shipment. If a case has
been furnished with the instrument, the case should be used
whenever the instrument is not actually being operated.
The case provides necessary protection. Styrofoam
packing, bubbled polyethylene film, or crumpled
newspaper may be used for packing.

Those instruments not specifically listed should be shipped

using the customary precautions. Contact OR-OSHA Lab
if you have questions about specific instruments.

I:3-16
APPENDIX I:3-3. INSTRUMENT CHART

Note: Brand names are for identification purposes only and do not imply approval or acceptance by the Occupational Safety and
Health Administration.

PHYSICAL MEASUREMENTS
Measured substance Application Brands

Noise dosimeters Noise noisy locations Quest Q300, 400 and 500,
Metrosonics
SLM kits type 1 Noise noisy locations

Omnicals Noise meter calibration noise meters GenRad 1986-9700

Thermoanemometer Air movement ventilation Kurz 441 and 441S, TSI 8357

Hand pumps Detector tubes screening Sensidyne, Gastech,

National Draeger
Pumps, low Air volume sampling with Gilian LFS-113, SKC
charcoal tubes Pocket Pump

Pumps, medium flow Air volume sampling Dupont P4LC, MSA

Flowlite, SKC AirChek 52 and 2000,
MSA Elf, Gilian HFS-113 and
HFS-513

GAS & VAPOR METERS

CO dosimeter CO garages, indoor air Metrosonics 7700, TSI QTrak

Carbon dioxide meter CO2 indoor air quality TSI QTrak

Infrared analyzers CO, CO2, organic traces indoor air, Foxboro Miran 1B
substances leaks, spills

Mercury vapor meters Mercury mercury plants, spills Jerome, Bacharach

RADIATION METERS
Heat Stress Meters Ambient (environ- foundries, furnaces, Reuter-Stokes RSS-217,
mental) heat and ovens Vista Thermal 860

Photoionization Ionizable substances indoor air, leaks, spills HNU, MiniRae

Nonionizing radiation Nonionizing radiation communications, micro- Holaday Field Strength Meter
meters waves, heaters with E and H probes, Narda

BIOLOGICAL MONITORS
Microbial Sampler Microbes indoor air quality Anderson Air Sampler

I:3-17
SECTION I: CHAPTER 4

SAMPLE SHIPPING AND HANDLING

A. INTRODUCTION

This chapter contains sample handling, packaging, and SINGLE COMPONENT ANALYSIS
mailing instructions for industrial hygiene samples to be
shipped to the OR-OSHA Lab or another accredited facility. Particular attention should be given to substances that must
Certain Department of Transportation (DOT) Regulations (49 be submitted for analysis of a single component of a mixture.
CFR) may apply to shipment of materials. Contact the OR-
OSHA Resource Center to see a current copy of the Code of INTERFERENCE
Federal Regulations Title 49 for Department of
Transportation regulations. @ Lab notification. Laboratory analysis methods and
their results may be susceptible to interference by
SAMPLE COLLECTION compounds sometimes present in the sample. For this
reason, the laboratory must be notified if a suspected
CHEMICAL INFORMATION FILE interfering substance may be present in the sample.

Collect all samples following the procedures outlined for the @ Interfering substances. The following substances
specific chemical or agent in the Chemical Information should be noted, if suspected or known to be present,
Table. The current version of the Chemical Information on the OSHA-91S form:
Table is available in Chapter 13, Appendix A of the OR-
OSHA Field Operations Manual or at - Solvents. Solvents with the same boiling point and
http://www.cbs.state.or.us/internal/osha/lab/lab.htm on the polarity as the substance being tested may cause
Internet. interference, although mass spectral identification
will usually resolve any conflict

- Free silica. The following chemicals should be

A. Introduction............................................I:4-1 noted on the Field and Laboratory Analysis Report
form if they are considered to be present in the
B. Mailing Instructions...............................I:4-2 work environment or as part of the sample:

C. Federal Mailing Regulations..................I:4-5

I:4-1
 aluminum phosphate @ When the chemical composition of the material is
feldspars (microcline, orthoclase, plagioclase) incomplete or unknown. Discuss composition of an
graphite undefined sample with the supervisory CSHO and the
iron carbide manufacturer of the material.
lead sulfate
micas (biotite, muscovite) @ The analysis of bulk samples will generally be
montmorillonite semiquantitative and cannot be evaluated on the basis
potash of the sampling analytical errors (SAEs) stated in the
sillimanite Chemical Information Table.
silver chloride
talc Bulk samples are required for analyses of the following:
zircon (zirconium silicate)
@ asbestos,
- Asbestos. All fibrous materials and high nonfibrous @ mineral oil and oil mist,
dust levels. @ chlorinated camphene,
@ chlorodiphenyl,
- Metals. High concentrations of other metals and @ silica (quartz, cristobalite),
inorganic dust. @ hydrogenated terphenyls,
@ Portland cement,
BULK SAMPLES @ chlorinated diphenyl oxide,
@ fugitive grain dust,
Bulk samples should be submitted to the laboratory in the @ explosibility testing
following circumstances: - benzene solubles
- isocyanates
@ When an analysis is required to support a potential petroleum distillates
violation (e.g., 1% silica in sand-blasting operations).

@ As an analytical reference, or to assess solvent or Determine labeling and packaging requirements of the
interference. material according to DOT regulations before shipping bulk
samples.

B. MAILING INSTRUCTIONS
SAMPLE IDENTIFICATION
appropriate methods (UPS, Greyhound) may be used. When
Samples sent to the laboratory shall be packaged with a copy such methods are used carrier receipts shall be retained by the
of the original Field and Laboratory Analysis Report. field office until the samples arrive at the lab.
Samples are usually sent by shuttle, but for those areas
outside the shuttle’s service area, U.S. Mail or other

I:4-2
FILTER CASSETTES MIDGET IMPINGER OR FRITTED GLASS
BUBBLER SAMPLES
Pack filter cassettes inside a sturdy cardboard box with
sufficient packing material so the samples will not be Samples may be left in the impinger if they are to be
damaged by outside shocks or striking against each other. delivered personally to the lab. For samples which are going
to be shipped, transfer the sample into a small sample bottle.
NOTE: Asbestos cassettes in particular should not be Tighten the cap and wrap elastic tape counterclockwise
used with polystyrene packing, because the static around the cap so that as the tape shrinks, it will tighten the
electricity may cause the fibers to cling to the sides of lid. Fed OSHA uses black electrical tape.
the cassette instead of the filter. Take extra care to
ensure that the cassettes are not loose in the box Seal the bottle inside a whirlpak . This is done to prevent
during shipping. leaking through the package even if an individual sample
does leak. Label and seal whirlpak with a sample seal. If the
Ship with a completed Field and Laboratoary Analysis Report sampling media needs to be kept cold, ship in a cooler with
form to identify the samples. If the report sheet is to be sent blue ice.
by e-mail, then identify the samples with your name, date,
firm name or inspection number, and analytes. Include the Field and Laboratory Analysis Report sheet with
samples.
Do not ship bulk samples in the same mailing package as air
samples. Ship by state shuttle mail or Greyhound Package Express,
depending upon the requirements of the sampling media. If
SOLID SORBENT TUBES Greyhound is used, also use the package delivery service
from the station to the lab.
Sealed tubes should be put in a sealable plastic bag or
whirlpak to prevent individual tubes from being mixed with MSDS’s are included with sampling media shipments. DOT
the packing material. For sorbent tubes which must be regulations exempt us from hazardous labeling of packages
shipped cold, pack the tubes in a plastic bag with blue ice to containing less than 5L of Toluene.
prevent the tubes from slipping away from the ice during
shipping, then wrap the plastic bag with bubble pack, and
ship with Field and Laboratory Analysis Report sheet in a
sturdy container.

I:4-3
 SOIL SAMPLES
WIPE SAMPLES
For contaminated soil, pesticide and other nonroutine samples
Wipe filters should be in liquid-proof containers to prevent the HCO/SCO must directly contact the laboratory to which
cross-contamination from any source or contaminants in the the sample will be sent to ascertain how the samples are to be
mailing container. If a hazardous solvent was used to wet the shipped.
filters, proper labeling and packaging may be required. Wipe
samples must be identified as such on the accompanying The OR-OSHA lab will assist the HCO/SCO in determining
Field and Laboratory Analysis Report. which laboratory will conduct the needed analysis.

BULK SAMPLES Bagging

Bulk solvent samples should never be mailed to the - Soil should be placed in a heavy-duty plastic bag
laboratory in the same package with any other type of air that will not tear, and secured and sealed air-tight
sample. with tape. Place the first plastic bag in a second
heavy-duty bag for additional protection.
Bulk solvent samples should be shipped in vials with caps
having Teflon liners and wrap the vials with tape to prevent Size of Samples
the caps from loosening. Then wrap an evidence seal over
the cap, down around the bottom. The vials should be well - Samples should vary from one pint for very
packaged in adsorbent material, and sent in a sturdy fine-grained samples to two quarts for coarse
container. If the material is hazardous according to DOT gravel. A typical sample should be approximately
regulations, it should be properly labeled and packaged. one quart and weigh three pounds.

A copy of the Field and Laboratory Analysis Report (if the Sample Identification
original is with the air samples) must accompany each bulk
sample. The sheet must identify the shipped material as a bulk - Each plastic bag should be sealed for identification
sample and must list the air sample numbers corresponding to with a seal containing a field number, sampling
the bulk sample. The air sample's Field and Laboratory date, and the sampler's name. A laboratory number
Analysis Report should also indicate that an associated bulk will be assigned to each sample at the OR-OSHA
sample is being shipped and also the mode of shipment to the lab.
Lab. If available, include a copy of the material safety data
sheet for the bulk sample. Sample Shipping
- The heavy-duty bags containing soil samples
should be tied at the top and placed in a box for
shipment to the OR-OSHA lab. The Field and
Laboratory Analysis Report should not be in
contact with the soil.

A Field and Laboratory Analysis Report must be submitted

for each soil sample.

I:4-4
C. FEDERAL MAILING REGULATIONS

JURISDICTION Publication 49 CFR Table 172.101 is the key to

understanding current DOT regulations for domestic
When shipping hazardous materials to the Lab, Department shipment of hazardous materials. If hazardous materials
of Transportation (DOT) regulations must be followed. are to be shipped internationally, then either the
Such regulations may prohibit the use of the United States International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) technical
Postal Service (USPS) or the state shuttle service. instructions or the International Air Transport Association
(IATA) instructions are to be used. To ensure that current
regulations are followed, it is important to use only the
RESPONSIBILITY
most recent edition of 49 CFR, ICAO, or IATA.
The shipper is responsible for compliance with applicable
The USPS and private carriers base their shipping
transportation or postal laws and regulations governing
procedures for hazardous materials on the DOT 49 CFR
acceptability to the carrier and additional packaging
regulations. These regulations are the minimum acceptable
requirements.
for hazardous materials. In some case, the carriers have
chosen to be more restrictive than DOT regulations. In
All items that are acceptable for mailing are subject to
using these procedures, it is the shipper's responsibility to
provisions of Part 124, USPS Manual and Publication 52
determine if the carrier they plan to use is more restrictive
of the USPS, Acceptance of Hazardous or Perishable
than DOT. The shipper must comply with the carrier's
Articles.
requirements.
The Transportation Safety Act of 1974 extended the
NOTICE TO THE CARRIER
Department of Transportation's (DOT) authority over
transportation of hazardous or restricted materials. The full
For all modes of transportation, the carrier must be clearly
text of the hazardous materials regulations is contained in
informed that hazardous material is being tendered.
Title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 100-199. It is
the shipper's responsibility to comply with all applicable
DOT regulations. Notification must be given. Any person who violates a
provision of Title 49 in shipping a hazardous material
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS shall be subject to a civil penalty of not more than
$10,000 per violation, and if any such violation
The main categories of hazardous materials sent to the constitutes a separate offense. A person who willfully
laboratory are: violates a provision of this title and is convicted of a
criminal offense is subject to a fine of not more than
@ poisons, $25,000, imprisonment for a term not to exceed 5
@ flammable liquids, years, or both.
@ oxidizers,
@ flammable solids,
@ corrosive materials (acids and alkalies), and The great variety of chemicals precludes the listing of each
@ irritating materials. item that may be mailed.
@ Biological samples
Publications available from the United States Postal
Service give an indication of what can be mailed.

Certain chemicals are not mailable as bulk samples.

Examples are:
Nitric acid
Aniline
Gasoline
Chloropicrin
Perchloric acid
Organic phosphate compounds
Benzoyl peroxide
Parathion (liquid)
Class A poisons

Special handling or analysis may be needed in these cases.

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Most solid sorbent tubes, silica-gel tubes, filters, and wipe Since all samples are subject to possible litigation, there
samples will not be classified as hazardous materials and has to be a chain and/or proof of custody of the samples
can be shipped as regular certified mail through the USPS. from the field to the Laboratory. The preferred form is the
certified mail receipt. Samples shipped by certified mail go
When a restricted article is tendered for shipment, the first class (air mail).
customer is required properly to identify, classify, package,
mark, label, and certify all articles as specified in Title 49. Detailed instructions on sample shipping according to DOT
A Shipper’s Certification and labels for restricted articles regulations are available directly from the DOT.
can be obtained from:

American Labelmark
5724 N Pulaski Rd
Chicago, Il 60646
(312) 478-0900

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