Workers operating the styrofoam densifier are exposed to specific airborne contaminants, including styrene, respirable dust, and total dust. Exposure to airbone contaminants can result in adverse health effects, such as occupational asthama, respiratory illnesses and lung cancer.
As an environmental health and safety professional, it is important to assess selected airbone contaminants through an exposure assessment.
Select airborne contaminant and Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) were evaluated using NIOSH Analytical Methods.
The initial stage of the exposure assessment involved contacting production area managers, coordinating a time to schedule a suitable time for conducting the assessment. GilAir sampling pump along with a VOC sampler was hooked onto the worker prior to performing the work. VOC sample media was sourced from an external laboratory. Gilian GilAir air sampling pumps were pre and post calibrated with a Dry Cal medium flow Defender at approximately 2 liters per minute (LPM). At the completion of air sampling, all the samples including field blank filters, were capped, and stored in a plastic bag with a chain of custody form and shipped to a laboratory for analysis.
The concentration of Volatile Organic Compounds was below the threshold value, complying with federal regulations. Workers carried out their tasks in an open space while using appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
This was my first time conducting an exposure assessment. Understanding the mechanism of air sampling pump and calibrator was both exciting and challenging. I recognized the importance of taking thorough field notes for future data analysis and recommendation.
A huge thank you to my manager Mike Truong for guiding me along my internship and challenging me with such a large-scope project. I extend my thank to the environmental and safety team for their feedback and helping me grow as an safety professional.
