Validation and Application of Wipe Sampling and Portable XRF Analysis as an On-Site Screening Method for Assessment of Deposited Aerosols in Workplaces

Abstract

Emission of metals in the form of aerosols constitutes a potential health risk in many working environments. Determination of deposited aerosols can be a useful tool for the assessment of aerosol distribution in the workplace and be a complement to more traditional exposure measurements. X-Ray fluorescence (XRF) is a common analytical method for elemental analysis of aerosols. By collection of deposited aerosols by wipe sampling followed by XRF analysis, the distribution of aerosols can be assessed. This paper describes the validation of a screening method for the assessment of aerosol distribution in workplaces. The method has been shown to have adequate performance for screening studies of deposited aerosols in workplaces and can, thus, be a useful complement to traditional occupational hygiene measurements. The applicability for screening measurements is demonstrated by assessment of the distribution of welding fumes in a welding workshop and of a cytotoxic drug in a drug preparation room at an oncology clinic. Being rapid and simple, it will be a useful tool to identify target spots for more extensive assessment of the workers exposure situation.