Chemical analysis

branch handbook
9th edition
Workplace and biological
monitoring exposure analysis
Disclaimer
This publication may contain work health and safety and workers compensation information. It may include some of your obligations under the various legislations
that WorkCover NSW administers. To ensure you comply with your legal obligations you must refer to the appropriate legislation.
Information on the latest laws can be checked by visiting the NSW legislation website legislation.nsw.gov.au
This publication does not represent a comprehensive statement of the law as it applies to particular problems or to individuals or as a substitute for legal advice.
You should seek independent legal advice if you need assistance on the application of the law to your situation.
© WorkCover NSW
Contents
General information 2
Workplace monitoring 2
Biological monitoring 3
Table 1 – Workplace monitoring analysis 5
Volatile organics screen – 73 reported compounds* 17
Table 2 – Biological monitoring analysis 18
Additional information about the organophosphate metabolites in urine screen 32
Abbreviations used in table 1 and table 2 33
Laboratory accreditation 34
Quality assurance 34
Measurement uncertainty 35
Useful references and websites 36
General information
The Chemical Analysis Branch is located at Thornleigh in the northern suburbs of Sydney. It is a specialised
occupational health analytical service focusing on the presence of hazardous substances in the workplace and is
National Association of Testing Authorities, Australia (NATA) accredited to ISO/IEC 17025. The branch is part of
TestSafe Australia which is owned by WorkCover NSW.
Tests are performed on biological (blood or urine) and workplace (air, dust, vapour, solid or liquid) samples as part
of worker and workplace assessments. The main areas of analysis cover exposure to pesticides, metals, elements,
solvents, organic vapours, dusts, and various inorganic and organic substances including carcinogenic substances.
The laboratory utilises state of the art modern instrumental techniques which include gas chromatography, mass
spectrometry, liquid chromatography, x-ray diffractometry/fluorescence spectrometry, atomic absorption, inductively
coupled plasma mass spectrometry, infrared spectrophotometry and microscopy.
Laboratory staff are specialists in the above areas and have NATA signatory status.
The laboratory’s NATA accreditation number is 3726. For more information about the scope of accreditation, visit
nata.com.au
For technical enquiries or administrative assistance, call 61 2 9473 4000 or email lab@workcover.nsw.gov.au

Workplace monitoring
Table 1 lists the routine occupational hygiene tests that are available for workplace assessments. The types of
samples or sampling devices are specified along with recommended sampling conditions or requirements. It is
also recommended that field blanks(s) or control(s) be submitted with samples when requesting tests from the
laboratory. Information is also supplied about the analytical methods used. Wherever possible, in-house methods are
based on those of NIOSH, OHSA, HSE and Australian Standards. Results are reported in terms of an amount found
in the sample or sampling device.
The laboratory also performs many non-routine tests which are not listed in table 1. For many of these requests, the
acquisition of analytical reference standards is all that is required for the laboratory to be able to validate modified or
new test procedures. Where methods do not exist, the laboratory can often develop a new procedure to allow the
test to be performed however this approach may take several weeks or months.
For assistance contacting consulting occupational hygienists who are members of the Australian Institute of
Occupational Hygienists, call 61 2 9473 4000 or visit aioh.org.au

Between collection and transport

Between collection and transport to the laboratory, samples for organic requests should always be kept cool to
maintain sample integrity. An ice-brick is recommended to accompany the specimens during transportation. Samples
should be transported as soon as possible after collection. If this is not possible, store samples in the fridge until
transport can be arranged.

2 WORKCOVER NSW
Biological monitoring
Table 2 lists the blood and urine tests available from the laboratory.

Collection of urine specimens

Prior to collection, workers are encouraged to change out of their work clothes and thoroughly wash their hands to
avoid possible contamination when collecting the urine specimen. Showering prior to collection is even better.
Urine specimens (except 24-hour urines) should be midstream. The collection of urine specimens may appear to be
an easy alternative to collecting blood specimens. However, it is often difficult to obtain a urine specimen that is not
contaminated or a specimen that is not too diluted or too concentrated. Also care must be taken to ensure that the
worker does not have significant renal impairment. In the past, 24 hour specimens were routinely collected for many
analyses in order to average out the fluctuations in urine concentration that often occur. Because of the difficulty
in achieving worker compliance with this form of urine collection, an attempt has been made to use spot urine
specimens for routine urine analyses. Correction of the urinary analyte to either a standard specific gravity, a standard
urinary volume rate or to the creatinine content have now been advocated in an attempt to compensate for fluctuations
in urinary concentration. Currently the laboratory policy is to report urinary analyses in terms of the creatinine
concentration of the urine. This form of correction is not effective for all substances eliminated from the body in the
urine – eg toluene, styrene or fluoride. At present the policy is to align the laboratory’s creatinine correction procedures
with the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH). This organisation is currently reviewing
their creatinine correction policy and the laboratory will await further developments before making any changes to the
current procedure.
It is recommended that if a collected urine specimen is obviously either too diluted or too concentrated, arrangements
should be made for recollection rather than submit it for analysis. The ACGIH recommends rejection of urine
specimens with creatinine concentrations greater than or equal to 3g/L or less than or equal to 0.3g/L. To convert a
creatinine corrected result to an uncorrected result, multiply the corrected result by the creatinine result – eg a 50µg
analyte/g creatinine result for a urine specimen with 2g creatinine/L of urine converts to 100µg analyte/L of urine.
The biological half-life of a substance should also be taken into consideration when arranging the timing of collection
of specimens and when interpreting results, particularly when the substance is eliminated rapidly.

‘End of shift’
‘End of shift’ collections should be the first lot of urine voided after the work shift. Collection should take place in the
last two hours of exposure or immediately after the shift has ended.

‘End of shift at end of workweek’ or ‘End of workweek’

‘End of shift at end of workweek’ or ‘End of workweek’ sampling times imply a continuous exposure of the worker to
the chemical substance throughout the entire working week. If the worker is exposed on only one occasion during a
working week, the sampling time then should be at the end of shift/exposure.

Between collection and transport

Between collection and transport to the laboratory, specimens should always be kept cool to maintain specimen
integrity. An ice-brick is recommended to accompany the specimens during transportation. Specimens should be
transported as soon as possible after collection.

Baseline or background analyses

These are analyses performed to determine a person’s exposure level of a chemical in their blood or urine. The
subsequent results are compared against this result to determine the net increase in absorption of the chemical due
to occupational exposure.

CHEMICAL ANALYSIS BRANCH HANDBOOK 3

Biological half-life
Biological half-life (T(½)) refers to the length of time it takes the body to rid itself of half the amount of a chemical it
has absorbed – eg absorbing 40 µmol of a chemical having a T(½) of three days:
•• after three days 20 µmol will remain in the body
•• after six days 10 µmol will remain in the body
•• after nine days 5 µmol will remain in the body.
For best interpretation of analytical results performed on a routine specimen, the collection time for that specimen
should be within one half-life from the end of the chemical exposure. Biological half-lives are reflected in the given
sampling times.

Biological Occupational Exposure Limit (BOELS)

BOELs are reference values intended as guidelines for evaluating potential health hazards. Table 2 lists the blood and
urine tests available from the laboratory and a compilation of BOELs. These limits have been adopted by WorkCover.
The source of the BOEL adopted is stated in table 2 (see ‘reference’ column). In most cases the laboratory is aligned
with the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) which has adopted biological exposure
indices (BEIs).

Confidentiality
The branch ensures confidentiality between the laboratory and the customer. No information shall be passed onto
any person within TestSafe Australia, WorkCover NSW or to corporate entities or other individuals.

4 WORKCOVER NSW
 Table 1 – Workplace monitoring analysis
Substance Sample Sample requirements LOQ Exposure Method Comments
Acid screen Air/silica gel tube (SKC-226-10- 0.2–0.5L/min for tubes. 2.5µg/tube or filter NIOSH 7903 Samples are desorbed
03) [25mm cellulose acetate Min. Vol.3L (Modified), IC with deionised water and
membrane filter (0.8µm) can Max. Vol.100L WCA194 (Screen) the inorganic anions are
also be used for sulfuric acid] Blanks required analysed by HPLC using
[1.5L/min for filters with WCA109 (H2SO4 ) conductivity detection.
a recommended sample Results are reported as
size of 180L] the corresponding acid.
Hydrobromic acid 9.9mg/m3 (TWA)
Hydrochloric acid 7.5mg/m3 (TWA)
Hydrofluoric acid 2.6mg/m3 (TWA)
Nitric acid 5.2mg/m3 (TWA)
Oxalic acid 1mg/m3 (TWA)
Phosphoric acid 1mg/m3 (TWA)
Sulfuric acid 1mg/m3 (TWA)
Acetic acid Coconut shell charcoal sorbent Flow rate: 0.2L/min 2.0µg/tube 10ppm (TWA) OSHA PV2119, Samples are extracted
tube (SKC226-01) Vol: 240min 15ppm (STEL) IC WCA 208 with 0.01 N NaOH and
analysed by IC using a
conductivity detector.
Aldehyde screen Air/glass fibre filter impregnated 0.5L/min. Two thick 0.25µg/filter OSHA Method Filters are desorbed
with 2,4-Dinitrophenylhydrazine 37mm filters in air 64 (modified), with acetonitrile and
Acetaldehyde monitoring cassette. Keep 0.25µg/filter 36mg/m3 (TWA) LC WCA 179 the DNPH derivative is
Passive sampling can be cool and covered in foil (20ppm) analysed by HPLC at
Acrolein undertaken using UMEx-100 when not sampling. 0.25µg/filter 0.23mg/m3 (TWA) 365 nm.
sampling devices. Min. Vol.15L, Max. Vol. (0.1ppm)
Chloroacetaldehyde 60L Blank filter required. 0.25µg/filter 3.2mg/m3 (TWA)
Contact laboratory for (1ppm)
Crotonaldehyde filters. 0.25µg/filter 5.7mg/m3 (TWA)
(2ppm)
Formaldehyde 0.25µg/filter 1.2mg/m3 (TWA)
(1ppm)
n-Valeraldehyde 0.25µg/filter 176mg/m3 (TWA)
(50ppm)
Acrylic acid Air/XAD-8 silica bead sorbent 0.1L/min 1µg/tube 5.9mg/m3 (TWA) OSHA Vol. 1 Tube is desorbed with a
tube (SKC-226-30-08). Sample Min. Vol.1.5L (2ppm) Method 28, methanol/ water solution
section 100mg. Two tubes are Recommended Vol.24L LC WCA 157 and analysed using UV
used in line. detection at 210nm.

CHEMICAL ANALYSIS BRANCH HANDBOOK

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Table 1 – Workplace monitoring analysis
Substance Sample Sample requirements LOQ Exposure Method Comments
Alkaline dust 3
Filter, 1µm PTFE 37mm Flow rate between 1 and 0.03mg/sample 2mg/m (NaOH) NIOSH Method The method measures
NaOH, KOH, LiOH and membrane (eg Zefluor from 4L/min for a sample size (as NaOH) (Ceiling) 7401, (Issue 2), total alkalinity of alkali

WORKCOVER NSW
other basic salts as dust Gelman Sciences or equivalent) of 70 to 1000L. Do not (7 x 10-4 moles of TR WCA 177 hydroxides, carbonates,
or mist exceed a filter loading of alkalinity) borates, silicates,
about 2mg total dust phosphates, and other
basic salts, expressed as
equivalents of sodium
hydroxide.
Amines in air (aliphatic) Air/silica gel tube (SKC-226-10) 0.01 to 1.0L/min 0.01mg/tube Methylamine 13mg/m3 NIOSH method Tube is desorbed with
Iso-propylamine Total volume of 3 to 30L (TWA) (10ppm) 2010 (modified) an acidified methanol
Propylamine n-Butylamine 15mg/m3 GCMS solution. Alkali is added
Sec-Butylamine (TWA) (5ppm) WCA 180 and the free volatile
n-Butylamine Diethylamine 30mg/m3 amines are analysed by
Hexylamine (TWA) (10ppm) headspace GCMS.
Cyclohexylamine Trimethylamine 24mg/m3
Dimethylamine (TWA) (10ppm)
Diethylamine Triethylamine 12mg/m3
Dipropylamine (TWA) (3ppm)
Dibutylamine
Dimethylethylamine
Trimethylamine
Triethylamine
Tributylamine
Tert-Butylamine
Ammonia Air/silica gel tube 0.1 to 0.5L/min. 1µg/tube 17mg/m3 NIOSH method Tube is desorbed with
(SKC-226-10-06) 96L max volume. (25ppm) TWA 6016 (modified), water and analysed by
IC WCA 149 HPLC with conductivity
detection.
Asbestos Bulk samples (eg fibro, lagging, 5–10g or a 50 x 50mm Trace N/A AS4964-2004 Chrysotile, amosite
dusts) piece PLM/DS and crocidolite in bulk
WCA 201 samples determined
by polarised light
microscopy including
dispersion staining.
Qualitative determination
only.
Atrazine Air/GF filter 0.5L/min 0.3µg/sample 5mg/m3 Vermeulen et al
J. Chromat. 1982,
240 (1) 247-253,
LC WCA 167
 Table 1 – Workplace monitoring analysis
Substance Sample Sample requirements LOQ Exposure Method Comments
Cristobalite 3
Respirable dust Respirable dust 0.01mg/filter 0.1mg/m (TWA) NHMRC method Non-destructive
α-quartz + cristobalite Air/25 mm PVC membrane filter (AS 2985-2004) for measurement technique. Amorphous
reported GLA5000 (pall corporation) or of α-quartz in (non-crystalline) forms
equivalent, 5µm airborne dust of silica not detected.
by FTIR and Free silica polymorphs
XRD (1984), (α-quartz, cristobalite
XRD WCA 220 and tridymite) resolved.
Cytotoxic drugs Swab – Isopropanol 3ng/sample LCMS Swab is treated with
Cyclophosphamide Wipe a known area of the (equivalent to WCA 233 0.03M NaOH and then
Ifosfamide surface (eg 10 x 10cm) 0.03ng/cm2 extracted with ethyl
Doxorubicin when 10 x 10cm acetate and analysed by
Vincristine sampled) UPLC/MSMS ESI+.
Etoposide
Methotrexate
Drugs Air/25 mm glass fibre filter 1L/min Enquire at Lab Enquire at Lab In House Method Drugs are desorbed from
LC filters in organic/aqueous
solutions and analysed
by HPLC.
Dust Membrane Filter 2 blank filters must be 0.01mg/filter LOQ 10mg/m3 (TWA) AS3640 – 1989 For pre and post
supplied 0.001mg/filter LOD measured as inhalable GRAV weighing of filters.
dust WCA 151
16 Elements Inhalable dust Air/25 mm PVC Inhalable dust (AS 3640- 1µg/filter Enquire at Lab XRF Membrane filters are
As, Cd, Cr, Co, Cu, membrane filter GLA 5000 2004) 2L/min WCA 181 analysed directly by
Fe, Pb, Mn, Mo, Ni, (Pall Corporation) or equivalent, x-ray fluorescence
Se, Sn, Ti, V, W, Zn 5µm 2L/min spectrometry which
is a non-destructive
Welding Fumes Air/25 Welding Fumes 1µg/filter Total Inhalable Dust XRF technique.
mm membrane filter DM (AS3853.1-1991) 10mg/m3 WCA 182
800 (Gelman Sciences) or See also, Hurst J and
equivalent. Any PVC filter that Geyer R, 12th Annual
complies with ASTM D 2986- AIOH Conference 1993.
71 ie, DOP 0.3µm at 32L/min (Modified HSE MDHS 91)
99.94% North, M.R.,and Haswell,
S.J. J Anal. At.Spec 1988.
Elements on surfaces Surface/swab Swab a surface area 5µg/sample WCA.219 A surface sample is
Be, V, Cr, Mn, Co, Ni, Ghost wipe preferred swab usually of 10 x 10cm (1µg/sample Be) taken of known area.
Cu, Zn, As, Se, Sr, Cd, The sample is digested
In, Sn, Sb, Pt, Hg, Tl, Pb, with nitric acid and
Bi, U analysed by ICPMS.

CHEMICAL ANALYSIS BRANCH HANDBOOK

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Table 1 – Workplace monitoring analysis
Substance Sample Sample requirements LOQ Exposure Method Comments
50 Elements Bulk solids (eg soil, powders) 10g preferably less than 0.01% w/w N/A In House Method Samples analysed as
Al, Sb, As, Ba, Bi, Br, 2mm aggregate XRF pressed powders using

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Cd, Cs, Ca, Cl, Cr, Co, WCA 113 Uniquant software.
Cu, Ga, Ge, Au, Hf, In, I,
Ir, Fe, Pb, Mg, Mn, Hg,
Ni, Nb, Pd, P, Pt, K, Rh,
Rb, Se, Si, Ag, Na, Sr, S,
Tl, Te, Ta,Sn, Ti, W, U, V,
Y, Zn, Zr
Ethylenediamine (EDA) XAD-2 (SKC 226-30-18) Flow rate: 0.01 to 0.1L/ 3.0µg/tube EDA 10ppm (TWA) for EDA OSHA 60 Samples are collected
Diethylenetriamine Min. Vol: 1L – 20L 0.1µg/tube DETA 1ppm (TWA) for DETA NIOSH 2540 on XAD-2 resin
(DETA) 0.2µg/tube TETA 2ppm (TWA) for TETA LC coated with 10%
Triethylenetetramine WCA 222 1-naphthylisothiocyanate
(TETA) (NITC). Samples
are desorbed with
dimethylformamide, and
the amine derivative is
analysed by HPLC using
UV detection at 254 nm.
Ethylene oxide 3M Monitor (3550-3551) Passive monitor suitable 0.5µg/sample 1ppm (TWA) 3M (Ethylene EO is absorbed on
for 15 mins sample or (0.4ppm for 15 min Oxide) charcoal that has
8 hrs or 0.01ppm for 8 GCMS been chemically
hours) WCA 217 treated with HBr. The
vapours are converted
to 2-bromoethanol,
desorbed with 10%
methylene chloride
in methanol and
quantitated using a GC/
MS in SIM mode.
Ethanolamine (MEA) Silica gel sorbent tube Flow rate: 0.1 to 0.2L/min 1.0µg/tube MEA 3ppm (TWA) and NIOSH 2007 Samples are collected on
Diethanolamine (DEA) (SKC 226-10) Vol: 4 – 24L 2.0µg/tube DEA 6ppm (STEL) for MEA NIOSH 3509 silica gel tubes (SKC 226-
Triethanolamine (TEA) 3.0µg/tube TEA 3ppm (TWA) for DEA (modified) 10), extracted with 1.7
IC mM HNO3 and analysed
WCA 228 by Ion Chromatography
(IC) using a conductivity
detector.
Filter weight Membrane filter Contact laboratory for pre- 0.01mg/filter AS3640 – 1989 For single weighing of
weighing of filters. GRAV filter.
WCA 156
 Table 1 – Workplace monitoring analysis
Substance Sample Sample requirements LOQ Exposure Method Comments
Fluoride 3
Air/cellulose acetate membrane 1–2L/min 3µg F/sample filter 2.5mg/m (TWA) NIOSH 7902 Measurement using
filter (0.8 mm) with Na2CO3 Min.Vol. 12L, modified ion specific electrode.
treated cellulose backing pad Max.Vol. 800L Blank filter ISE Method measures
required. WCA 117 soluble particulate
Contact laboratory for and gaseous forms of
filters. fluoride.
Formaldehyde Air/Impinger solution containing 0.2–1L/min 1µg/impinger 1.2mg/m3 NIOSH 3500 Formaldehyde is
aqueous sodium metabisulphite Min. Vol. 1L; solution (1ppm) TWA modified trapped in the aqueous
(20mls) Max. Vol. 100L 0.2µg/passive SPEC metabisulphite solution
Blank solution required monitor WCA 111 and then reacted with
Contact laboratory for a chromotropic acid
impinger solution. reagent to form a
3M Passive Monitor (3721) ½–1 whole workshift 1.2mg/m3 3M – Method coloured complex which
(See also aldehyde screen) SPEC is measured at 575 nm.
WCA 111 Formaldehyde vapour
monitors are desorbed
with water and this
is then reacted with
a chromotropic acid
reagent to form a
coloured complex which
is measured at 575 nm.
Formaldehyde and/or Air/glass fibre filter impregnated 0.5L/min for formaldehyde 0.25µg/filter 0.41mg/m3 OSHA Method 64 Filters are desorbed
glutaraldehyde with 2,4-Dinitrophenylhydrazine 1L/min for glutaraldehyde. (0.1ppm) Peak Limitation modified with acetonitrile and
Two 37mm filters in air Sample Vol. 15L for LC the DNPH derivative is
monitoring cassette. Keep cool glutaraldehyde Peak WCA 114 analysed by HPLC at
and covered in foil when not Limitation, 365 nm.
sampling. Max. Vol. 120L Sampling rates for
Blank filter required. UMEx-100
Contact laboratory for Formaldehyde: 28.6 mL/
filters. min and Glutaraldehyde:
0.03 – 0.5L/min 14.3 mL/min
SKC tube SKC 226-119 Min:1L Max: 15L
UMEx 100 Passive sampler NIOSH 2016

CHEMICAL ANALYSIS BRANCH HANDBOOK

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Table 1 – Workplace monitoring analysis
Substance Sample Sample requirements LOQ Exposure Method Comments
Glycols XAD7-OVS tube 200mg/100 0.5 – 2L/min 25µg/tube Ethylene glycol (vapour) NIOSH 5523 XAD-7 OVS tube is
mg (SKC 226-57) Min. Vol. 5L 52mg/m3 (20ppm) GC desorbed with methanol
Max Vol. 60L WCA 209 and ultrasonication. The

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Propylene glycol (total
Ship to lab in esky with vapour and particulates) glycols are then analysed
ice-brick 474mg/m3 (10ppm) by dual column GC/FID.

Diethylene glycol
100mg/m3 (23ppm)
Hexavalent chromium Air/25 mm PVC membrane Flow rate: 1–4L/min 0.5µg/filter 0.05mg/m3 TWA AS 3853.1-2006 The test measures
(Total) Filter (0.5µm) SPEC both water soluble and
Use inhalable dust
sampling head. WCA 176 insoluble Chromium VI
after initially screening
for total chromium.
Hydrogen sulfide Air/pre-filter (zefluor; 0.5µm Recommend flow rate: 2.0µg/tube as H S 14mg/m3 (TWA) NIOSH 6013 Charcoal tubes are
25mm) / charcoal tube (SKC 0.2L/min 2 (10ppm) (Modified) desorbed with an
226-09) Flow rate range: IC ammonia/hydrogen
0.1–1.5L/min WCA 183 peroxide solution
Min. Vol. 1.2L which oxidises H2S to
Max Vol 40L the sulfate anion. The
Blank tube required sulfate is analysed by
HPLC using conductivity
detection.
Inhalable dust Inhalable dust Air/25mm PVC Inhalable dust 0.01mg/Filter Total inhalable dust WCA 190 A gravimetric
membrane filter GLA 5000 (AS 3640-2004) 2L/min 10mg/m3 determination of both
(Pall Corporation) or equivalent, a pre-weight and a
5µm 2L/min post-weight sample
is performed. It is
preferable for both
weights to be performed
in the same laboratory.
 Table 1 – Workplace monitoring analysis
Substance Sample Sample requirements LOQ Exposure Method Comments
Isocyanates 3
Air/impinger solution containing Impinger solution to be 0.1µg Total NCO / 0.02mg/m (TWA) HSE-MDHS 25/3 Analysis requires the
methoxy phenyl piperazine kept in the dark as much sample as NCO LC detection by both UV
(10mL) or glass fibre filters as possible. (This is equivalent WCA 110 and electrochemical
impregnated with methoxy 1L/min for 15min. to 0.001mg/m3 detectors.
phenyl piperazine. Blank solution must be NCO for a 15min This method measures
supplied with samples. sample at 1L/min total isocyanates
A sample of the flow rate) (ie monomers and
isocyanate(s) being used polymers) expressed as
should be supplied to the NCO groups.
laboratory. For isocyanates
Contact laboratory for present as aerosols
impinger solution or filters. an impinger solution
Filter 2L/min for 15 min. followed by a filter is the
For combined Impinger/ recommended sampling
Filter sampling use a flow device.
rate of1L/min. For vapours a filter
sampler alone is
sufficient.
Lead Paint flakes Minimum 100mg paint 0.01% w/w 1% by weight of the dry In-house method Paint flakes are digested
flakes paint ICPMS in nitric acid and then
AS4361.2 1998 WCA 213 analysed using ICPMS.
Guide to Lead Paint
Management: Part 2
Residential and
Commercial Buildings
1988.
Maleic anhydride Air/15mL impinger solution 0.2–1.5 L/min 7.5µg/sample 1mg/m3 Modified NIOSH Absorbing solution is
containing 0.1% aqueous Min. Vol. 40L, Max. Vol. (0.25ppm) TWA 3512, LC WCA 160 analysed by HPLC with
phosphoric acid 500L. Blank solution detection of maleic
required. anhydride at 254nm.
Mercury in air Solid sorbent tube 0.15–0.25L/min 0.1µg/tube 0.025mg/m3 NIOSH 6009 Elemental mercury is
(elemental) For expected high loadings use Sample size 2 – 100L CVAAS trapped on hopcalite
SKC hopcalite Cat No. 226-17- WCA 174 tubes. Desorbed with
3A (8 x 110mm – 500mg) nitric/hydrochloric acid
For typical loadings use solution. Analysis by cold
SKC hopcalite Cat No. 226-17- vapour atomic absorption
1A (6 x 70mm – 200mg) spectrophotometry.
Inorganic and organic
mercury compounds
may cause a positive

CHEMICAL ANALYSIS BRANCH HANDBOOK

interference.

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Table 1 – Workplace monitoring analysis
Substance Sample Sample requirements LOQ Exposure Method Comments
Methyl bromide 3
Air/anasorb 747 coconut 0.01 – 0.1L/min 0.5µg/sample 5ppm (19mg/m ) WCA 232 Two Anasorb 747
charcoal tube Min Vol. 1L, Max Vol. 5L sampling tubes are
(SKC 226-83 x 2in series) (Use 1L sample volume if used in series and are

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(8 x 110 mm – 400/200mg) relative humidity is >50%) separated after sampling,
Pack in dry ice for capped separately.
shipment The samples are then
shipped to the laboratory
on dry ice. Analysis is
performed by desorption
with dichloromethane
and analysed by GCMS
in the SIM mode.
Minerals Bulk solids (eg sands, powders) 5–10g preferably less than 1–10% w/w N/A In House Method Screening test using
2mm aggregate XRD ICDD Mineral Data
WCA 112 Base. Samples analysed
by x-ray powder
diffractometry and must
have crystalline phases.
Amorphous forms not
detected.
Nicotine Air/XAD-4 sorbent tube 1L/min 0.02µg/Tube 0.5mg/m3 Modified Ogden XAD-4 tubes are
(SKC 226-93) Min.Vol. 60L, Max.Vol. Method (1989) desorbed with ethyl
400L. Blanks required. NIOSH 2551, acetate and analysed
GCMS by GC/MS using SIM
WCA 143 mode.
Nitric oxide and Air/3 x sorbent tubes connected 0.025L/min for both NO 1µg NO2/sample NO 25ppm 31mg/m3 NIOSH 6014 The sampling device
nitrogen dioxide in series. and NO2 (TWA) (modified) contains three tubes in
Molecular sieve/Oxidiser/ 0.2L/min for NO2 only NO2 3ppm; 5.6mg/m3 OSHA ID-182 and series. A molecular sieve
Molecular sieve. (TWA) ID-190 coated with triethanolamine
SKC 226-40 Molecular sieve followed by an oxidiser tube
(coated with triethanolamine) and followed by another
molecular sieve coated with
triethanolamine.
NO2 is collected on the
first tube; NO2 passes
through the first tube and
is oxidised on the second
tube and captured on the
third tube.
If NO2 is sought only then
one tube alone can be
used.
 Table 1 – Workplace monitoring analysis
Substance Sample Sample requirements LOQ Exposure Method Comments
Oil mist 3
(25) or 37mm membrane filters A sample of the oil 50µg/filter approx. 5mg/m (TWA) NIOSH Method The membrane filter
(Mineral Oil) 0.8 µm MCE, 5µm PVC, producing the mist must 5026 (Modified) is desorbed using a
2µm PTFE or glass fibre be submitted with the halogenated hydrocarbon
Blanks required sample(s) for calibration solvent and then
For high concentrations use GFF purposes analysed using FTIR.
1–3L/min
Min. Vol. 20 L @ 5mg/m3
Max. Vol. 500 L
Organochlorines screen Air/sorbent tube orbo 42 or 0.2–1L/min. 10ng/tube Enquire at lab for relevant In-house method Samples are desorbed or
Aldrin, chlordane, 44 or SKC 226-49-102 (Orbo Min. Vol. 12L, 50ng/swab pesticide GC extracted with isooctane
dieldrin, heptachlor, 42 small) or SKC 226-30-04 Max.Vol. 240L 100µg/Kg soil WCA 103 and analysed by GC
DDT, HCB (Orbo 44); swab; soil. orbo 44 Blanks required using ECD.
preferred but, can use orbo 42 Swab – approx 2cm
(Large) or orbo 42 (small) SKC diameter.
226-30-16 (OVS)
Organophosphates Air/25mm glass fibre filter, 0.2–1L/min. 0.1µg/tube Enquire at lab In-house method Samples are extracted
screen sorbent tube [SKC 226-30-16 Min. Vol. 12L, GCMS with a toluene/ acetone
Chlorpyrifos, (OVS) or SKC 226-30-05 or Max. Vol. 240L WCA 210 solution and analysed by
Demeton-S, Diazinon, Orbo 608] or equivalent Blanks required GC/MS.
Dibrom, Dichlorvos,
Disulfoton, Ethion,
Fenamiphos,
Fenclorphos, Fenthion,
Mevinphos, Phorate,
Prophos, Sulprofos,
Tetrachlorvinphos
Pesticides Air/25mm glass fibre filter 1L/min Enquire at lab Enquire at lab In-house method Pesticides are desorbed
GCMS from filters with a
WCA 175 suitable solvent and
analysed by GC/MS.
Polychlorinated Air/Sorbent Tube (Orbo 60 or 0.05–0.2L/min 1µg/tube PCBs (42% chlorine) In-house method Samples are desorbed or
biphenyls (PCBs) SKC ST 226-39); Swab; Soil. Min. Vol. 1L, Max. Vol. 50L 1µg/swab 1mg/m3 GC extracted with isooctane
Iso-octane for swab obtainable Blanks required 1g/Kg soil PCBs (54% chlorine) WCA 153 and analysed by GC
from laboratory. Cotton wool swab – 0.5mg/m3 using ECD.
approx 2cm diameter, soil:
1–10g.
Phenol Air/XAD-7 sampling tube Min.Vol. 1L, Max.Vol. 24L 1µg/tube 4mg/m3 OSHA No. 32 Samples are desorbed
(Orbo 47 or SKC 226-95) 0.1L/min for 4 hours (1ppm) TWA LC in methanolic sodium

CHEMICAL ANALYSIS BRANCH HANDBOOK

WCA 137 hydroxide solution and
analysed by HPLC.

13
14
Table 1 – Workplace monitoring analysis
Substance Sample Sample requirements LOQ Exposure Method Comments
Phthalic anhydride 3
Air/GF filters 1L/min 5µg/sample 6.1mg/m Modified NIOSH Sample filters are
(1ppm) TWA S179 desorbed using 0.2
LC M sodium hydroxide

WORKCOVER NSW
WCA 168 solution.
Polycyclic aromatic Air/37mm 2µm PTFE filter and 2L/min 0.1µg/sample No current exposure NIOSH method Samples are extracted
hydrocarbons (PAHs) XAD-2 (SKC-226-30-04), Min. 200L standard except for 5515 Modified and with cyclohexane and
Naphthalene Supelco Orbo 43 tube or Max. 1000L naphthalene. (52mg/m3; calif analysed by GC/MS
Acenapthylene equivalent Blanks required 10ppm) TWA exposures EPA Method 429 using SIM Mode.
Acenaphthene Wrap samples in should be controlled to GCMS
Anthracene Benz(a) aluminium foil and ship at lowest practicable level WCA178
anthracene Benzo(b) cold on an ice-brick
fluoranthene Benzo(a) UV light may cause
pyrene Benzo(ghi) sample degradation.
perylene Benzo(k)
fluoranthene Chrysene
Dibenz(a,h)anthracene
Fluoranthene
Fluorene
Indeno(1,2,3-cd)pyrene
Phenanthrene
Pyrene
Pyrethroids Glass fibre filter/XAD-2 OVS 68-480 at 1L/min 0.01–0.1µg/filter or N/A NIOSH Method Filters and sorbent
Bifenthrin OVS tube assembly (SKC 226- tube section 5008 (Modified) tubes are desorbed
Bioallethrin 30-16) or equivalent. GCMS with acetonitrile and the
Cyhalothrin WCA 199 desorbate analysed by
Cypermethrin GC/MS.
Deltamethrin
Fenpropathrin
Fenvalerate
MGK-264
Permethrin
Piperonyl butoxide
α-Quartz Respirable dust air/25mm PVC Respirable dust (AS2985- 0.01mg/filter 0.1mg/m3 (TWA) NHMRC method Non-destructive
α-quartz + cristobalite membrane filter GLA5000 5µm 2004) BCIRA cyclone for measurement technique. Amorphous
reported (Pall Corporation) or equivalent 2.2L/min SIMPEDS 2.2L/ of α-quartz in (non-crystalline) forms of
min AL cyclone 2.5L/min airborne dust by IR silica not detected. Free
and XRD (1984). silica polymorphs
XRD (α-quartz, cristobalite
WCA 220 and tridymite) resolved.
Blank filters should be
submitted.
 Table 1 – Workplace monitoring analysis
Substance Sample Sample requirements LOQ Exposure Method Comments
α-Quartz Bulk solids Samples analysed as 1% w/w NSW abrasive blasting In House Method Samples analysed as
ground powder regulations prohibits XRD pressed powders using
materials being used WCA 115 Siroquant software. Non-
in a process that have destructive technique.
any sand or free silica in amorphous forms of
them. silica not detected.
Free silica polymorphs
(α-quartz, cristobalite
and tridymite) resolved.
Respirable dust Respirable dust Air/25mm PVC Respirable dust 0.01mg/Filter 2mg/m3 amorphous WCA 191 A gravimetric
membrane filter (AS 2985-2009) fumed silica determination of both
GLA 5000 (Pall Corporation) or BCIRA 2.2L/min a pre-weight and a
equivalent, 5 µm 2L/min post-weight sample
SIMPEDS 2.2L/min is performed. It is
Al cyclone 2.5L/min preferable for both
weights to be performed
in the same laboratory.
Solvents – indoor air Air/charcoal tube (SKC 226-01) 0.02–0.2L/min for 0.1µg/tube – Enquire at lab for relevant Modified NIOSH Charcoal tubes are
(Alcohols, aliphatic and charcoal tube (1 to 100 hydrocarbons solvents 1500 and 1501 desorbed with CS2 and
aromatic hydrocarbons, L of air to be sampled 0.2µg/tube – GC analysed by GC using
chlorinated depending on atmospheric alcohols/ketones WCA 154 FID with 2 columns of
hydrocarbons, esters, concentration) 0.2µg/tube different polarity at a
ketones and complex – chlorinated sensitive setting. The
solvents) hydrocarbons use of passive monitors
1µg/tube – is not recommended.
methylene chloride
Solvents – industrial air Air/charcoal tube (SKC 226-01) 0.02–0.2L/min for 5µg/tube for Enquire at lab for relevant Modified NIOSH Charcoal tubes or
(Alcohols, aliphatic and or passive monitor (3M 3500 or charcoal tube (1 to 100 simple solvents solvents 1500 and 1501 passive monitors are
aromatic hydrocarbons, 3520) or SKC eqivalent L of air to be sampled 50µg/tube for GC desorbed with CS2 and
chlorinated depending on atmospheric complex solvents WCA 106 analysed by GC using
hydrocarbons, esters, concentration) FID with two columns of
ketones and complex ½–1 workshift for passive different polarity.
solvents) monitor.
Sulfur dioxide Air/IABC tube (SKC 226-80) 0.1L/min. 12L of air 1.0µg/tube 5.2mg/m3 (TWA) 2 ppm OSHA Method Samples are analysed as
ID-200 (Modified), sulphate by HPLC/IC.
IC WCA 198
TGIC Air/37mm glass fibre filter, 1L/min 2.5µg/sample 0.08mg/m3 (TWA) In House Method Filters are desorbed in
Triglycidyl isocyanurate AE binder free LC aqueous acetonitrile
WCA 161 solution and analysed by

CHEMICAL ANALYSIS BRANCH HANDBOOK

HPLC.

15
16
Table 1 – Workplace monitoring analysis
Substance Sample Sample requirements LOQ Exposure Method Comments
Unknown organics Liquid, solid or sorbent tube Samples should be Varies from 1–10 Enquire at Lab In House Method Analysis is performed
submitted in air tight ppm in solution GCMS by gas chromatography/
containers WCA 175 mass spectrometry (GC/

WORKCOVER NSW
MS) in the scan mode.
Unknown inorganics Solid Samples should be 1–10% w/w for N/A In House Method Analysis consists of an
(Crystalline substances) submitted in air tight XRD analysis XRF/XRD XRD scan for crystalline
containers depending on WCA 112 substances and an XRF
matrix WCA 113 Scan for 50 common
This is a qualitative elements of the periodic
analysis only table.
0.01% w/w for
XRF analysis
Vinyl chloride Coconut shell charcoal sorbent Flow rate: 0.05L/min 0.1µg/tube 5ppm (TWA) NIOSH 1007 Preferably stored and
tube (SKC226-01) Vol: 0.7L – 5L MDHS 96, GCMS transported in dry ice.
Preferably 2 tandem tubes WCA 212
VOC scan Air/charcoal tube (SKC 226-01) 0.02–0.2L/min for See list 73 Enquire at Lab In House Method Charcoal tubes or
See further for full list or passive monitor (3M 3500 or charcoal tube (1 to 100 compounds GCMS passive monitors are
of 73 volatile organic 3520) or SKC equivalent L or air to be sampled WCA 207 desorbed with CS2 and
compounds reported depending on atmospheric analysed by GC/MS.
concentration)
½–1 workshift for passive
monitor.
Welding fumes Welding fume Air/25mm PVC 2L/min 0.01mg/Filter Welding fume WCA 192 A gravimetric
membrane filter 10mg/m3 determination of both
GLA 5000 (Pall Corporation) or a pre-weight and a
equivalent, 5 m 2L/min post-weight sample
is performed. It is
preferable for both
weights to be performed
in the same laboratory.
Volatile organics screen – 73 reported compounds and total VOC’s*
Aliphatic hydrocarbons Aromatic hydrocarbons
(LOQ = 5µg) (LOQ = 1µg)
1 2-Methylbutane 39 Benzene and TVOC
2 n-Pentane 40 Ethylbenzene
3 2-Methylpentane 41 Isopropylbenzene
4 3-Methylpentane 42 1,2,3-Trimethylbenzene
5 Cyclopentane 43 1,2,4-Trimethylbenzene
6 Methylcyclopentane 44 1,3,5-Trimethylbenzene
7 2,3-Dimethylpentane 45 Styrene
8 n-Hexane 46 Toluene
9 3-Methylhexane 47 p-Xylene and/or m-Xylene
10 Cyclohexane 48 o-Xylene
11 Methylcyclohexane Ketones (LOQ = 25µg)
12 2,2,4-Trimethylpentane 49 Acetone
13 n-Heptane 50 Acetoin
14 n-Octane 51 Diacetone alcohol
15 n-Nonane 52 Cyclohexanone
16 n-Decane 53 Isophorone
17 n-Undecane 54 Methyl ethyl ketone (MEK)
18 n-Dodecane 55 Methyl isobutyl ketone (MIBK)
19 n-Tridecane Alcohols (LOQ = 25µg)
20 n-Tetradecane 56 Ethyl alcohol
21 α-Pinene 57 n-Butyl alcohol
22 b-Pinene 58 Isobutyl alcohol
23 D-Limonene 59 Isopropyl alcohol
Chlorinated hydrocarbons 60 2-Ethyl hexanol
(LOQ = 5µg) 61 Cyclohexanol
24 Dichloromethane Acetates (LOQ = 25µg)
25 1,1-Dichloroethane 62 Ethyl acetate
26 1,2-Dichloroethane 63 n-Propyl acetate
27 Chloroform 64 n-Butyl acetate
28 1,1,1-Trichloroethane 65 Isobutyl acetate
29 1,1,2-Trichloroethane Ethers (LOQ = 25µg)
30 Trichloroethylene 66 Ethyl ether
31 Carbon tetrachloride 67 tert-Butyl methyl ether (MTBE)
32 Perchloroethylene 68 Tetrahydrofuran (THF)
33 1,1,2,2-Tetrachloroethane Glycols (LOQ = 25µg)
34 Chlorobenzene 69 Propylene glycol monomethyl ether
35 1,2-Dichlorobenzene 70 Ethylene glycol diethyl ether
36 1,4-Dichlorobenzene 71 Propylene Glycol monomethyl ether acetate
Miscellaneous 72 Cellosolve acetate
(LOQ #37 = 5µg and #38 = 25µg) 73 Diethylene glycol monoethyl ether acetate
37 Acetonitrile
38 n-Vinyl-2-pyrrolidinone

*For charcoal sorbent tube or passive sampler devices. LOQ: Limit of quantitation.
CHEMICAL ANALYSIS BRANCH HANDBOOK 17
18
Table 2 – Biological monitoring analysis
BOEL
Method,
Biol. SI units Ref. Mass units
Exposure Test Sample Collection LOQ, Comments
half-life /mol
/L /L technique

WORKCOVER NSW
creatinine
Metals (See also multi-element screening)
Lead Blood FEP 10mL in Timing not critical 1.8µmol/L WCA 100µg/dL WCA 132 Measure of lead effect
(See also heparinised but level related 0.5µmol/L on haem synthesis.
(Free erythrocyte
multi-element tube to blood lead level FLUOR Suitable test for both
protoporphyrin)
screening) 2–3 months prior moderate and high
to collection. Not levels (>3.0 µmol/L) of
affected by lead lead exposure. Marked
contamination of increase can occur in
specimen. iron deficiency anemia
Mercury Blood mercury 10mL whole End of shift at end of 40–60 75nmol/L ACGIH 15µg/L WCA 223 BOEL refers to total
(acute exp) blood in work week days 20nmol/L mercury. Analysis
heparinised ICPMS measures inorganic
tube mercury and some
organic mercury if
it is present. Blood
mercury is for acute
exposure – accidental
spills. Dietary seafood
can interfere in the
blood test.
Mercury Urinary mercury 50mL urine Pre-shift at end 55 days 20µmol/ 0.17µmol/L ACGIH 35µg/L WCA 215 BOEL refers to
(chronic exp) in plastic of work week mol cr 20nmol/L inorganic mercury.
container (following exposure ICPMS Urinary mercury is the
in previous shift) preferred method of
monitoring for medium
to long term chronic
exposure of at least six
months or longer.
 Table 2 – Biological monitoring analysis
BOEL
Method,
Biol. SI units Ref. Mass units
Exposure Test Sample Collection LOQ, Comments
half-life /mol
/L /L technique
creatinine
Other chemicals
Creatinine This test is 50mL in Appropriate to N/A N/A Normal ACGIH Normal WCA 128 Urine results with
performed plastic analysis required Range (WHO) range 0.0005 mol/L a creatinine value
on each urine container 0.0027 0.3–3.0g/L SPEC outside the normal
received at the – 0.0265 range are not reported
laboratory mol/L relative to creatinine,
– ie they are not
creatinine corrected
but reported relative to
the volume of urine.
Cyanide Urinary 50mL in End of shift Hours – – Lauwerys – WCA 124 Must be a non-
thiocyanate plastic 3µmol/L smoker. Smoking
container SPEC causes increases in
thiocyanate up to 250
µmol/L (28 mmol/mol
creatinine). Dietary
sources may be
significant, especially
consumption of leafy
vegetables. Lauwerys
has quoted a reference
value of less than
6 mg/g creat. (11.7
mmol/mol creatinine
or 103 µmol/L).
Cytotoxic drugs Cyclophosphamide 50mL in End of shift 3–12 WCA 231 At present, no BOEL
ifosfamide plastic hours 0.2µg/L is set for cytotoxic
container LCMS drugs. However, it
is considered that
any level above the
LOQ is indication of
an exposure and that
work practices should
be reviewed. This
does not necessarily
have implications on a

CHEMICAL ANALYSIS BRANCH HANDBOOK

person’s health.

19
20
Table 2 – Biological monitoring analysis
BOEL
Method,
Biol. SI units Ref. Mass units
Exposure Test Sample Collection LOQ, Comments
half-life /mol
/L /L technique

WORKCOVER NSW
creatinine
Fluoride Urinary fluoride 50 mL Pre and post 4–7 hours 42mmol/ 370µmol/L DFG 7 mg/L WCA 150 Note that since
in plastic shift specimen mol cr 5µmol/L ISE fluoride is usually
container recommended present in reticulated
water and as a
consequence also
in processed food,
that levels up to 15%
of the BOEL can be
expected from dietary
sources. Accumulation
of fluoride in bones
also occurs but chronic
(>5 years) excessive
exposure is required
for the development of
fluorosis.
A non-occupationally
exposed level should
be below 52.6 µmol/L
(1mg/L).
Methyl bromide Blood bromide 10mL in End of shift at end of 9–15 days – 0.25 WCA 20mg/L WCA 148 Nonspecific test. May
heparinised work week mmol/L 0.02mmol/L be raised from dietary
tube XRF sources of bromine.
A level of less than
0.07 mmol/L is
considered normal.
MOCA Urinary MOCA 50mL in End of shift at end of 20 hours 15µmol/ 132nmol/L HSE 35µg/L WCA 187 Exposure is by skin
4,4’-Methylene plastic work week mol cr 25nmol/L absorption which may
bis-(2- container GC not be apparent to
chloroaniline) the worker. This may
explain variable MOCA
excretion. MOCA
levels are usually
higher at the end of
the shift and reflect
exposure over the
preceding 2–3 days.
 Table 2 – Biological monitoring analysis
BOEL
Method,
Biol. SI units Ref. Mass units
Exposure Test Sample Collection LOQ, Comments
half-life /mol
/L /L technique
creatinine
Pentachloro- Urinary PCP 50mL in Preshift at end of Biphasic: 0.25mmol/ 2.6nmol/L DFG 0.6mg/L WCA 166 Potential
phenol (PCP) (Total) plastic work week (ingestion) mol cr 2.3µmol/L 10µg/L environmental
ACGIH (2mg/L)
container 1.5 days (0.85mmol/ (7.5µmol/L) Under GC contaminant. Small
17 days mol cr) review amounts (30 µg/L)
(Urine) may be present in
the urine of persons
not occupationally
exposed.
Poly-chlorinated Blood PCB 10mL in Not critical Persistent Not Set (200µg/L WCA.152 PCBs are mainly forms
biphenyls Screen heparinised unofficial 30µg/L of arochlor.
(PCBs) or EDTA tube guideline GC T½ arochlor 1242
limit) (blood) 7-8 months.
T½ arochlor 1260
(blood) 33-34 months
Background level < 20
µg/L usually ≈ 1 µg/L.
Polycyclic End of shift 6–35 0.5µmol/ 5nmol/L ACGIH 1.0 µg/L WCA 158 1-Hydroxypyrene is
aromatic hours mol cr (under (under 0.5µg/L considered to be a
hydrocarbons (under review) review) LC suitable biological
(PAHs) review) marker for exposure
to polycyclic aromatic
hydrocarbons.
Pesticides
Herbicides Urinary herbicide 50mL in End of shift or end WCA 102 Urine collections must
screen plastic of work week if 10µg/L be made within 48
container using every day. GC hours of last exposure.
Bromoxynil hours Not set
Clopyralid hours Not set
Dicamba hours WCA 100µg/L
Picloram hours WCA 100µg/L
Triclopyr 5–6 hrs WCA 100µg/L
2,4-D 12–22 hrs WCA 100µg/L

CHEMICAL ANALYSIS BRANCH HANDBOOK

21
22
Table 2 – Biological monitoring analysis
BOEL
Method,
Biol. SI units Ref. Mass units
Exposure Test Sample Collection LOQ, Comments
half-life /mol
/L /L technique

WORKCOVER NSW
creatinine
Urinary 50mL in End of shift 6 hours Not set WCA 136 Urine collections
glyphosate plastic 25µg/L must be made within
container LC 48 hours of last
exposure. Literature
indicates glyphosate
is not easily absorbed
through skin.
Urinary MCPA 50mL in End of shift hours Not set WCA 193 Urine collections must
(4-chloro-2-methyl plastic 10µg/L be made within 48
phenoxy acetic container GCMS hours of last exposure.
acid)

Organo-chlorine Blood 10mL in WCA 150µg/L WCA 101 Chlordane and

insecticides organochlorine heparinised WCA 50µg/L 2µg/L heptachlor are stored
insecticide screen or EDTA tube 100µ /L GC in adipose tissues and
20µg/L are measured in blood
as the metabolite
heptachlorepoxide.
Aldrin breaks down
to give the metabolite
dieldrin.
Hexachloro- Not critical Persistent
benzene
Dieldrin Not critical Persistent
DDT (total) Not critical Persistent
Heptachlorepoxide Not critical Persistent
Endosulfans 10mL in End of shift hours Not set Endosulfans rarely
heparinised detected due to rapid
or EDTA tube metabolism.
Organo- Urinary alkyl 50mL in Post shift or next 1–2 days Not set WCA 203 See Additional
phosphorus phosphate plastic day after use For detection Information
insecticides metabolites container limits see Organophosphate
further LCMS metabolites for further
information.
 Table 2 – Biological monitoring analysis
BOEL
Method,
Biol. SI units Ref. Mass units
Exposure Test Sample Collection LOQ, Comments
half-life /mol
/L /L technique
creatinine
Solvents
Benzene S-Phenyl- 50mL in End of shift 9 hours 11.8µmol/ 0.10 ACGIH 25µg/L WCA 211 Sorbic acid is not a
mercapturic acid plastic mol cr µmol/L 0.5µg/L confounding factor for
in urine container LCMS measuring benzene
exposure via the
urinary metabolite
S-Phenylmercapturic
acid. The background
level for a non-smoker
is 2.0 µg/g creatinine
and for a smoker it is
3.6 µg/g creatinine.
Carbon disulfide 2-Thiothiazolidine- 50mL in End of shift 4–6 hours (1µmol/mol (3µmol/L ACGIH (500µg/L WCA 234 This BOEL is a
4-carboxylic acid plastic cr pending) pending) pending) 0.3µmol/L biological monitoring
(TTCA) container LCMS guidance value
therefore, test
results above do not
necessarily mean
adverse health effects
will occur.
Cresol Urinary cresol 50mL in Pre and post shift 3 hours – 1.8mmol/L DFG 0.2g/L WCA 145 Dietary sources may
plastic 0.05mmol/L be significant. Pre and
container LC post shift samples are
recommended o and
m forms not normally
found in urine. p-form
occurs in range 21–210
mmol/mol creatinine.
Average 94 mmol/mol
creatinine.
Ethyl benzene Urinary mandelic 50mL in End of shift at end of 4 hours 520mmol/ 4.6mmol/L ACGIH 0.69g/L WCA 125 Ethyl benzene may
acid plastic work week mol cr 0.3mmol/L accumulate in the
container LC body during the
working week. Major
metabolites are
mandelic acid (64%)

CHEMICAL ANALYSIS BRANCH HANDBOOK

and phenylglyoxylic

23
acid (25%).
24
Table 2 – Biological monitoring analysis
BOEL
Method,
Biol. SI units Ref. Mass units
Exposure Test Sample Collection LOQ, Comments
half-life /mol
/L /L technique

WORKCOVER NSW
creatinine
Furfural Urinary furoic acid 50mL in End of shift 2–2.5 200mmol/ 1.77 ACGIH 200mg/L WCA 186 Furfural is metabolised
plastic hours mol cr mmol/L 0.01mmol/L very rapidly in the body
container LC (2–2.5 hrs), therefore
sample collection is
critical. Furoic acid is
a natural constituent
of human urine
derived from dietary
sources, particularly
fructose. Its average
concentration is in the
order of 15 mmol/mol
creatinine.
Isocyanates Urinary isocyanate 50mL in End of shift 2–4 hours (1µmol/mol (0.009 HSL (1.5µg/L WCA 229 This BOEL is a
(HDI, 2, 4-TDI, 2, metabolites plastic cr pending) µmol/L pending) 0.003µmol/L biological monitoring
6-TDI and MDI) container pending) LCMS guidance value;
(HDA, 2, 4-TDA,
2, 6-TDA and therefore, the test
MDA) results above do not
necessarily mean
that adverse health
effects will occur.
Isocyanates are known
to cause respiratory
sensitisation and
asthma. Airborne
exposure should be
minimised. Dermal
absorption can also be
significant.
Phenol Urinary Phenol 50mL in End of shift 1–4 hours – 2.1mmol/L DFG 200mg/L WCA 145 Very rapidly excreted
plastic 0.05mmol/L in the urine following
container LC exposure.
 Table 2 – Biological monitoring analysis
BOEL
Method,
Biol. SI units Ref. Mass units
Exposure Test Sample Collection LOQ, Comments
half-life /mol
/L /L technique
creatinine
Solvents Urinary solvent 50 mL End of shift hours WCA 163
(Acetone, screen in plastic Acetone: ACGIH Acetone: 0.05mg/L
Ethyl Acetate, container 0.86 50mg/L except for
Methylethyl mmol/L Ethanol, (0.5
MEK: mg/L)
ketone (MEK),
MEK: 0.03 2mg/L GCMS
Methylisobuty
mmol/L MIBK:
lketone (MIBK),
Ethanol, MIBK: 0.02 2mg/L
Cyclohexanol, mmol/L THF:
Tetrahydro- THF: 28 2mg/L
furan (THF), µmol/L (Toluene:
Toluene,
(Toluene: 0.03mg/L
Methylene
0.326 pending)
Chloride,
µmol/L Methylene
1,1,1-trichloro-
pending)
ethane) Chloride:
Methylene 0.3mg/L
Chloride:
3.5µmol/L
Styrene Urinary mandelic 50 mL End of shift Biphasic: 297mmol/ 2.6mmol/L ACGIH 400mg/L WCA 125 Mandelic acid and
acid in plastic 3–4 hours mol cr 0.3mmol/L phenylglyoxylic
container 25–40 hrs LC acid are the major
(urine) metabolites of styrene.
They are initially
excreted rapidly in
the urine following
exposure then slowly
over several days.
The BOEL is for an
exposure measured
as mandelic and
phenylglyoxylic acids.
Tetrachloro- Urinary 50 mL End of work week 2-4 days – 0.02 ACGIH 3.5mg/L WCA 146
ethylene trichloroacetic in plastic (urine) mmol/L 0.01mmol/L
acid container GC

CHEMICAL ANALYSIS BRANCH HANDBOOK

25
26
Table 2 – Biological monitoring analysis
BOEL
Method,
Biol. SI units Ref. Mass units
Exposure Test Sample Collection LOQ, Comments
half-life /mol
/L /L technique

WORKCOVER NSW
creatinine
Toluene Urinary hippuric 50mL in End of shift 1–3 hours 1010mmol/ 9mmol/L ACGIH 1.6g/L WCA131 Hippuric acid is the
acid plastic (urine) mol cr 0.5mmol/L major metabolite
container LC (64%) of toluene.
Urinary o-Cresol 50mL in End of shift 3 hours 0.5mmol/ 4.6µmol/L ACGIH 0.5mg/L WCA 145 However, dietary
plastic (urine) mol cr 0.05mmol/L sources (certain
container LC vegetables and fruits
and the preservative
sodium benzoate) may
also be metabolised
to hippuric acid in
significant amounts.
Although o-Cresol
is only a minor
metabolite(1%)
of toluene, it is
more specific than
hippuric acid. Test is
recommended only if
hippuric acid levels are
high as a confirmation
exposure to toluene.
1,1,1-trichloro- Urinary 50mL in End of shift at end of 2-4 days – – – – WCA 146
ethane (Methyl trichloroacetic plastic work week (urine) 0.01mmol/L
chloroform) acid container GC
Trichloro- Urinary 50mL in End of shift at end of 2-4 days – 0.12 DFG 20mg/L WCA 146
ethylene trichloroacetic plastic work week (urine) mmol/L 0.01mmol/L
ccid container GC
Xylenes Urinary toluric 50mL in End of shift Biphasic: 650mmol/ 5.7mmol/L HSE 1.1g/L WC 131 Toluric acid is the
acid (methyl plastic 3.6 hours mol cr 0.05mmol/L major metabolite
hippuric acid) container 30 hours LC (95%) of xylenes.
(urine) Metabolism of xylene
to toluric acid is
inhibited (-50%) by
ethanol and aspirin.
 Table 2 – Biological monitoring analysis
Multi-element screening in urine by ICPMS
The inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer (ICPMS) has the ability to provide multi-element analysis.
The laboratory screens for the following 13 elements in urine.
The urine samples (20 mL in MSU container) should be collected at the end of shift, preferably at the end of the working week.
BOEL
Biol.
Exposure µmol/mol Mass LOQ Comments
half-life SI units Ref.
creatinine units
1 Antimony 4 days 0.01µmol/L The urinary concentration has been determined to be approximately
equivalent to = 5.87 + 0.52Sb in air (when Sb in air is in µg/m3)
The upper 95% of the population background level of urinary
antimony was 0.00002 mol/L (≅ 2.6ng/g creatinine)
2 Beryllium 20 days soluble 0.05µmol/L At present, there is no clear relationship between beryllium internal
1 year insoluble dose and toxic effects. However, sensitisation to beryllium can occur
via all routes of exposure and lead to chronic beryllium disease.
The urinary beryllium concentration is generally below 13µmol/mol
creatinine (111nmol/L) and mean values have been reported as low
as 3.5µmol/mol creatinine (31nmol/L) in the general population.
Smokers also usually show levels below 13µmol/mol creatinine
(111nmol/L), but on average have levels higher than non-smokers.
3 Bismuth 5 days 0.01µmol/L Bismuth compounds are considered to be poorly to moderately
absorbed after inhalation or ingestion, but there is no quantitative
data. Ingested bismuth is largely eliminated unabsorbed in faeces,
however, absorbed bismuth is mainly excreted in urine. For the
general population, the total daily intake in food is approx 5–20 µg.
4 Cadmium 20 years 5 µmol/ 44nmol/L 5µg/L ACGIH 0.02µmol/L The measurement of cadmium in urine estimates chronic exposure.
(chronic exp) mol cr However, it may provide no information on integrated exposure
during the first year of exposure. In the workplace the lungs are the
major route of absorption of aerosols, dusts and fumes. The main
route of elimination is renal. Renal tubular damage from cadmium or
renal tubular dysfunction of other etiologies results in increased renal
elimination of cadmium.
5 Chromium Triphasic 7 hours 10µmol/ 0.09 5µg/L HSE 0.02µmol/L This BOEL is for exposures to hexavalent chromium which is
15–30 days mol cr µmol/L reduced to trivalent chromium when it enters the body. Elimination
of chromium is triphasic with half-lives of 7 hours, 15-30 days,
3–5 years and 3–5 years. The background level of chromium in urine should
be <4.0 µmol/mol creatinine. Concentrations of chromium in
preshift samples reflect past exposure, whereas post-shift sample

CHEMICAL ANALYSIS BRANCH HANDBOOK

values reflect both past and current exposures; therefore, it is
recommended that a pre-shift and post-shift sample be taken.

27
28
Table 2 – Biological monitoring analysis
BOEL
Biol.
Exposure µmol/mol Mass LOQ Comments
half-life SI units Ref.
creatinine units

WORKCOVER NSW
6 Cobalt 29µmol/ 0.25 15µg/L ACGIH 0.02µmol/L The form of cobalt in the inspired air (particle size, solubility) has an
mol cr µmol/L effect on the air urine concentration relationship. The BOEL should
be applied for all cobalt and inorganic compounds, except cobalt
oxides. Sampling time and avoidance of sample contamination are
critical. This test is indicative of exposure over a number of days.
7 Copper 1 month Lauwerys 0.02µmol/L The unexposed concentration of copper in urine is approximately
50µg/g creatinine (89µmol/mol creatinine or 0.79µmol/L).
8 Lead (organic) 27µmol/ 0.24 50µg/L DFG 0.01µmol/L Urine is the preferred matrix for exposure to organic lead (eg alkyl
mol cr µmol/L lead additives of petrol). This test is not recommended for exposures
to inorganic lead.
9 Manganese 2–5 weeks 0.02µmol/L The unexposed concentration of manganese in urine is usually
(chronic exp) 0.2–3.4µmol/mol creatinine. Manganese in urine reflects recent
exposure. Better interpretation of exposure is obtained on a group
basis as excretion rates vary with dose. It has been suggested that
blood and urine measurements are useful for confirming exposure.
10 Nickel 20-27 hours 0.04µmol/L The absorption rate is generally dependent on the solubility of the
compound. Levels of nickel in biological media markedly increase
following inhalation of soluble compounds (such as nickel chloride,
sulfate or nitrate), however poorly soluble compounds (such as nickel
carbonate, sulfide or oxide) result in lesser, but more prolonged
elevation. Recent studies indicate that in non occupationally exposed
subjects, the concentration of nickel in urine is usually below 3.9
µmol/mol creatinine (2 µg/g creatinine).
11 Selenium Biphasic 0.40µmol/L The general population selenium values in urine are generally
1–3 days below 43 µmol/mol creatinine (380 nmol/L) (P 95%: 44µmol/mol
30–110 days creatinine (391nmol/L); Mean: 32µmol/mol creatinine (280 nmol/L)).
Occupational exposure is expected to fall below 1265 nmol/L.
12 Thallium 15–30 days 0.004µmol/L Following absorption, thallium rapidly appears in the urine, which is
the main excretory pathway. Excretion, however, is slow and levels
may remain elevated for several weeks (half-life is between 15 to 30
days). The concentration of thallium in the urine is generally below
0.83 µmol/mol creatinine (7.3nmol/L). Occupational exposure is
expected to fall below 245nmol/L (28µmol/mol cr or 50µg/L).
13 Uranium Biphasic 2 days 0.003µmol/L The determination of uranium in urine is used to evaluate recent
50–60 days exposure to soluble uranium salts. It has been proposed that
to prevent renal damage, the post shift urine concentration of
uranium should not exceed 120µmol/mol creatinine(1050nmol/L).
Background population levels range from 0.01 to 0.14µmol/mol
creatinine (0.1 to 1.3nmol/L).
 Table 2 – Biological monitoring analysis
BOEL
Biol.
Exposure µmol/mol Mass LOQ Comments
half-life SI units Ref.
creatinine units
14 Vanadium 15–40 hours 110µmol/ 0.98 50µg/L ACGIH 0.02µmol/L Absorption of vanadium is mainly via the respiratory route with
mol cr µmol/L very little of the ingested amount being absorbed. The skin is a
minor route of absorption. The background level of vanadium in
urine of an unexposed person should be less than 2.2µmol/mol
creatinine. Workday exposure is best assessed by pre and post shift
comparisons. Monday morning samples might reflect accumulation
of the metal in the body. Vanadium is eliminated in the urine with a
half-life of 15–40 hours.

CHEMICAL ANALYSIS BRANCH HANDBOOK

29
30
Table 2 – Biological monitoring analysis
Speciation of arsenic in urine by LC/ICPMS
Exposure to arsenic is determined by the analysis of the following four metabolites in urine TestSafe Method Number: WCA.218
The urine samples (20 mL in MSU container) should be collected at the end of shift, preferably at the end of the working week.

WORKCOVER NSW
BOEL
Biol.
Exposure µmol/mol Mass LOQ Comments
half-life SI units Ref.
creatinine units
1 Monomethyl – 0.02µmol/L The Biological Occupational Exposure Limit of 0.470µmol/L is for
arsonic acid inorganic arsenic that is classified as an IARC category 1 carcinogen.
(MMAv) The ACGIH has recommended that the test result be not reported
2 Dimethyl arsinic – 0.02µmol/L adjusted to creatinine, however, the creatinine result is provided
acid (DMAv) separately in order to assist with the interpretation of the test result.

3 Arsenic (III) – 0.02µmol/L Arsenic from occupational sources occurs predominantly as As(III)
and As(V). Both As(III) and As(V) are metabolised in the body and
4 Arsenic (V) – 0.02µmol/L can be excreted in urine as the less toxic compounds, dimethyl
5 Total inorganic 1–4 Days – 0.470 35µg/L ACGIH 0.02µmol/L arsinic acid (DMAv) and monomethyl arsonic acid (MMAv). In people
arsenic µmol/L exposed to high levels of As(III) or As(V) not all of the inorganic
species will be converted in the body to MMAv or DMAv, and
therefore As(III) and As(V) may also be excreted in urine.
Fish and shellfish contain organic arsenic compounds such as
arsenobetaine (AB) and a small amount of DMAv, which are excreted
in urine unchanged.
MMAv is the metabolite of exposure to As(III) and/or As(V).
DMAv is present in seafood and is the main metabolite of exposure
to As(III) and/or As(V) As(III) and As(V) will be found present in the
urine when moderate to high exposures have been experienced and
the sample has been taken within 24 hrs of exposure.
Arsenobetaine is only present in seafood.
Urinary excretion proportions are approximately 15–25% MMAv,
40–75% DMAv and 20-25% As(III) and/or As(V). These proportions
can vary depending on exposed species, time after exposure and
dose level. Total Inorganic Arsenic test result is the summation of
MMAv + DMAv + As(III) + As(V) and this value is compared to the
BOEL.
6 Dietary arsenic – 0.02µmol/L Arsenobetaine is only present in seafood
arsenobetaine
 Table 2 – Biological monitoring analysis
Multi-element screening in blood by ICPMS
The inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer (ICPMS) has the ability to provide multi-element analysis.
The laboratory screens for the following four elements in blood. Testsafe Method Number: WCA 214.
The blood samples (10 mL in heparinised tube) can be collected anytime taking care to avoid contamination.
BOEL
Exposure Biological half-life Ref LOQ Comments
mass units

1 Cobalt Biphasic 17nmol/L 10nmol/L Cobalt in blood collected at the end of the last shift of the workweek is an indicator of recent
A few days months- exposure to cobalt or its inorganic compounds. Cobalt oxides are less soluble and therefore
years should show lower levels. The background cobalt levels should not exceed the BOEL.
However, persons with surgical implants or on cobalt containing medication for the treatment
of anemia may show higher levels. The biological half-life of cobalt in blood is 29 hours.
2 Cadmium 2 months 44nmol/L 20nmol/L Measurements of cadmium in blood are an indication of recent exposure to cadmium.
Monitoring in blood should be preferred during the initial year of exposure and whenever
changes in the degree of exposure are suspected. Measurements of cadmium in urine are the
most widely used biological measure of chronic exposure to cadmium.
3 Lead Triphasic 6 weeks 2.4µmol/L 0.1µmol/L Blood is the preferred matrix for measuring exposure to inorganic lead whereas urine is the
6 months preferred matrix for measuring exposure to organic lead (eg alkyl lead additive of petrol).
Most blood lead is contained within the erythrocytes. Blood lead levels are falling in the
20 years general community and most levels will be less than 0.7µmol/L in males and less than 0.5
µmol/L in females.
4 Manganese Hours 364nmol/L 100nmol/L

CHEMICAL ANALYSIS BRANCH HANDBOOK

31
Additional information about the organophosphate metabolites in urine screen
Abbreviation Name Limit of detection Creatinine adjusted detection
limitsfor a urine with 1 g/L
(0.010 mol/L) creatinine
DMP Dimethylphosphate 1.5 µmol/L (200 µg/L) 150 µmol/mol creatinine
DMTP Dimethylthiophosphate 0.2 µmol/L (25 µg/L) 20 µmol/mol creatinine
DMDTP Dimethyldithiophosphate 0.2 µmol/L (25 µg/L) 20 µmol/mol creatinine
DEP Diethylphosphate 0.7 µmol/L (100 µg/L) 70 µmol/mol creatinine
DETP Diethylthiophosphate 0.2 µmol/L (25 µg/L) 20 µmol/mol creatinine
DEDTP Diethyldithiophosphate 0.2 µmol/L (25 µg/L) 20 µmol/mol creatinine

Technique: Liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry.

This test measures occupational exposure to organophosphate pesticides which when absorbed are excreted in the
urine as either one or more of the following alkyl phosphate metabolites (breakdown products).
International studies of the urinary excretion of these metabolites in the general population have shown that on
average, the levels found are below the detection limits of this method.

Metabolite(s)* Organophosphate pesticide

DEP, DETP Chlorfenviphos, chlorpyrifos, diazinon, parathion, pirimiphos-methyl, pyrazophos
DEP, DETP, DEDTP Azinphos-ethyl, ethion, phorate, terbufos
DMP Dichlorvos, mevinphos, monocrotophos, trichlorphon
DMP, DMTP Azamethiphos, chlorpyriphos-methyl, famphur, fenitrothion, fenthion, omethoate,
parathion-methyl, temephos, tolclofos-methyl, vamidothion
DMP, DMTP, DMDTP Azinphos-methyl, dimethoate, malathion, methidathion, phosmet

*One or more of these metabolites would be expected.

Guidelines for interpreting results

•• Levels of dialkyl phosphates in urine below 100 µmol/mol creatinine would be considered to be a low
occupational exposure and equivalent to a high non-occupational exposure.
•• Levels of dialkyl phosphates in urine between 100 and 1000 µmol/mol creatinine would indicate that the
person has had an occupational exposure to organophosphates and therefore work practices may need to be
reviewed to reduce exposure levels.
•• Levels of dialkyl phosphates in urine above 1000 µmol/mol creatinine would indicate a high occupational
exposure to organophosphates and may be associated with a drop in the blood cholinesterase level.
•• For workers with chronic exposure to organophosphates the dialkyl phosphate level in urine may also be
associated with a drop in the blood cholinesterase level.

32 WORKCOVER NSW
Abbreviations used in table 1 and table 2
Instrumental techniques
CVAAS Cold vapour atomic absorption spectrophotometry
ECHD Electrochemical detection
FTIR Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy
GC Gas chromatography with flame ionisation or electron capture detection
GCMS Gas chromatography with mass spectrometry detection with/without headspace sampling
LC High performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence, ultra-violet wavelength,
electrochemical or conductivity detection
LCMS Liquid chromatography - (mass spectrometry)
IC Ion chromatography
ICPMS Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry
ISE Ion selective electrode
LCICPMS Liquid chromatography - inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry
PLM Polarising light microscopy with dispersion staining
SPEC Spectrophotometry with visible wavelength detection
XRD X-ray diffractometry
XRF X-ray fluorescence spectrometry

Other abbreviations used

ACGIH American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists
AIOH Australian Institute of Occupational Hygienists
AS Australian Standard
BOEL Biological Occupational Exposure Limit
DFG Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (Germany)
HSE Health and Safety Executive (United Kingdom)
LOD Limit of detection
LOQ Limit of quantitation
LAUWERYS ‘Industrial Chemical Exposure Guidelines for Biological Monitoring’ Lauwerys and Hoet, 2001
NHMRC National Health and Medical Research Council (Australia)
NIOSH National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (USA)
OSHA Occupational Safety and Health Administration (USA)
WCA WorkCover Authority of NSW

CHEMICAL ANALYSIS BRANCH HANDBOOK 33

Laboratory accreditation
The Chemical Analysis Branch is accredited with the National Association of Testing Authorities, Australia (NATA),
for compliance to the international standard ISO/IEC 17025. Under a Memorandum of Understanding, the
Commonwealth Government recognises NATA as the sole national accreditation body for establishing competent
laboratory practice. The cornerstone of NATA accreditation is peer/expert assessment whereby the laboratory
is assessed for technical competence. This ensures that the laboratory is always up to date with new technical
developments and trends. By complying with the requirements of ISO/IEC 17025, the laboratory also meets most of
the requirements of the international standards ISO 9001 and ISO 9002. ISO/IEC 17025 provides further guidance for
laboratories by covering several technical competence requirements that are not covered by ISO 9001 or ISO 9002.
The ISO/IEC 17025 standard covers areas including:
•• laboratory management
•• quality control
•• documentation control
•• review procedures for requests
•• tenders and contracts
•• purchasing services and supplies
•• client service including customer complaints management
•• non-conforming work policy
•• internal audit systems
•• corrective action procedures
•• management reviews
•• technical requirements – eg personnel, accommodation and environmental conditions
•• test method selection and validation
•• appropriate equipment
•• measurement traceability and measurement uncertainty.

Quality assurance
In order to ensure the highest degree of accuracy in the analytical results, the laboratory undertakes extensive intra-
laboratory and inter-laboratory quality assurance (QA) activities. Within the laboratory, staff analyse laboratory and
field blanks and perform duplicate and repeat analysis of samples. Spiked QA samples are also included routinely in
each run to ensure the accuracy of the analyses. For many years, the branch has participated in several national and
international inter-laboratory comparison programs including:
•• Workplace Analysis Scheme for Proficiency (WASP) and Asbestos in Materials Scheme (AIMS) conducted by
the Health and Safety Executive, United Kingdom
•• Quality Management in Occupational and Environmental Medicine QA Program conducted by the Institute for
Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, University of Erlangen, Germany
•• Quality Control Technologies QA Program, Australia.
•• Royal College of Pathologists QA Program, Australia.
•• Organic Vapour Monitor Analysis Program conducted by 3M.

34 WORKCOVER NSW
Measurement uncertainty
The branch is currently issuing a large number of its reports with an estimation of the measurement uncertainty.
The measurement uncertainty is an estimate attached to a measurement that characterises the range of values
within which the true value is asserted to lie. Every measurement has an uncertainty associated with it, resulting
from errors arising in the various stages of sampling and analysis and from a limited knowledge of factors affecting
the result. For measurements to be of practical value it is necessary to have some knowledge of their reliability.
A statement of uncertainty is a quantitative estimate that tries to address this issue. A wide variety of factors make
any analytical measurement result liable to deviate from the true value. As far as reasonably possible, such errors are
minimised by external control or explicitly corrected for. The exact deviation of a single measurement result from the
(unknown) true value is, however, impossible to obtain, both because the different factors vary from experiment to
experiment and because the effects of each factor on the result is never known exactly. The likely range of deviation
is therefore estimated.

CHEMICAL ANALYSIS BRANCH HANDBOOK 35

Useful references and websites
ACGIH American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists TLV’s and BEI’s,
Threshold Limit Values for Chemical Substances and Physical Agents and Biological
Exposure Indices acgih.org
AGRO The Agrochemicals Handbook. 3rd Edition. Royal Society of Chemistry.
1991. Editor H. Kidd. ISBN: 0-85186-416-3
AIHA American Industrial Hygiene Association aiha.org
AIOH Australian Institute of Occupational Hygienists aioh.org.au

BOHS British Occupational Hygiene Society bohs.org

CCH Laboratory Safety Manual. By the Occupational Health and Safety Unit of the University
of NSW. R Haski, G. Cardilini and W. Bartolo. CCH Australia Limited. First published in
October 1992 but continually updated. ISBN: 1-86264-439-X
HSE Health and Safety Executive, United Kingdom hse.gov.uk
HSL Health and Safety Laboratory, United Kingdom hsl.gov.uk
LAUWERYS Industrial Chemical Exposure Guidelines for Biological Monitoring.
Lauwerys and Hoet 2001. ISBN: 0-87371-650-7 3rd edition.
NATA National Association of Testing Authorities, Australia. For a listing of accredited
laboratories throughout Australia and their terms of accreditation nata.com.au
NIOSH NIOSH Manual of Analytical Methods, 4th Edition, 1994. US Dept. of Health
and Human Resources. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health,
Cincinnati, Ohio cdc.gov
OMH Occupational Medicine Handbook. Information for Medical Practitioners.
11th Edition. 2003. Editor Dr K Wooller. ISSN: 1320-8624
OSHA OSHA Analytical Methods Manual, Occupational Safety and Health Administration.
US. Dept. of Labor, Salt Lake City osha.slc.gov
PESKEM Peskem. The Australian Directory of Registered Pesticides and Their Users.
Continually updated by the centre for Pesticide Application and Safety, University of
QLD, Gatton College. ISSN: 1038-5789
SA Standards Australia standards.com.au
Safe Work Safe Work Australia. Exposure Standards for Atmospheric Contaminants in the
Occupational Environment Guidance Note NOHSC: 3008, National Exposure
Standards NOHSC: 1003 May 1995. ISBN: 0644-451475 swa.gov.au

For comprehensive information about safety testing including hazardous substances and occupational hygiene testing,
visit testsafe.com.au
For information about work health and safety, visit workcover.nsw.gov.au or call 13 10 50.

36 WORKCOVER NSW
CHEMICAL ANALYSIS BRANCH HANDBOOK 37
 Catalogue No. WC03516 WorkCover Publications Hotline 1300 799 003
WorkCover NSW, 92–100 Donnison Street, Gosford, NSW 2250
Locked Bag 2906, Lisarow, NSW 2252 | WorkCover Assistance Service 13 10 50
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