Biological Monitoring
Biological exposure indices — blood, urine, and breath sample analysis
Overview
Biological monitoring measures the concentration of chemical substances or their metabolites in blood, urine, or exhaled breath to assess the total absorbed dose from all exposure routes — inhalation, skin absorption, and ingestion. It complements air monitoring by capturing non-inhalation uptake.
Results are compared against Biological Exposure Indices (BEIs) published by ACGIH or Biological Guidance Values from Safe Work Australia. Common analytes include blood lead, urinary mercury, urinary cadmium, urinary mandelic acid (styrene), and red cell cholinesterase (organophosphates).
Biological monitoring is legally mandated for lead risk work under WHS Regulations and is recommended for workers exposed to skin-absorbed chemicals (isocyanates, pesticides, solvents) where air monitoring alone underestimates total dose.
Relevant Standards
Common Industries
Related Services
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