How do you interpret and communicate exposure monitoring results to your workers and managers?

Simple comparison of an employee’s exposure to an OEL is a compliances-based method. Modern practice is shifting to more comprehensive assessment which evaluates exposures to all employees on all days using statistical analysis. An effective method of communicating these results is an alternative to traditional statistics and uses Bayesian analysis. This analysis provides probability that a particular exposure aligns within an AIHA Exposure Control Category (ECC) and said ECC provides prescriptive actions to take for control. This Bayesian analysis is easier for non-IH managers and personnel to interpret and taken action from.

Other abbreviation is OEL which stands for Occupational Exposure Limits. It is important to chose the OEL that best matches the task being monitored. If the task is a couple hours, it makes sense to use a TWA OEL, whereas a peak exposure of some seconds compares best to a ceiling (C) value. Always refer to the manufacturer or supplier safety data sheet (SDS), trusted references such as ACGIH, or an exposure band as per the company's standards, if applicable.

It is important to compare the OEL/OES to the relevant task duration (TWA, STEL, C). Usually the air monitoring considers exposure without the use of PPE. If the workers to use PPEs such as respirators, then we need to factor their APF into the results and see if the exposure is acceptable or needs further controls. Let's always remember that PPE is the least effective method of protection and that the hierarchy of controls should always be applied.

In a lot of countries, it is mandatory to share the sampling results with the Joint Health and Safety Committee, ensuring both employees and employer are represented and results shared with employees performing the tasks. Agreed that simple and clear language is to be used and all questions and concerns clarified. usually, the recommendations and next steps are presented with any immediate actions. Multiple samples are collected for the same task to ensure the accuracy of the sampling campaign.

Agreed. Involvement of the relevant personnel and leadership helps in all the steps of the process. The medical staff is a key partner in industrial hygiene as they bring valuable input and can ensure proper health surveillance programs are in place and in use.

The medical staff of the organization (Occupational Physician, nurse etc) play a key role in industrial hygiene as they help identify early symptoms, bring valuable input at all steps of the process, including early stages such as qualitative risk assessments (example: use of potent chemicals), emergency response to an exposure, health surveillance etc.

In my experience, effective communication of exposure monitoring results involves transparency, clarity, and collaboration. By comparing results to standards, contextualizing with other factors, and consulting with workers and managers, we ensure a comprehensive understanding and response to workplace hazards. Clear, concise communication fosters trust, empowers decision-making, and promotes a culture of safety. It's crucial to engage all stakeholders and prioritize their involvement throughout the process for effective risk management.