Contaminant Concentration
The relevant occupational exposure limits (OEL), Workplace Exposure Standard (WES) or Workplace Exposure Limit (WEL) safe exposure levels should be identified for contaminant/s associated with the task/application.
Knowing the exposure contaminant concentration is the key piece of information for the adequacy assessment to determine the Hazard Ratio/minimum protection required from the Respiratory Protective Device (RPD) for adequate protection against the identified hazardous substance.
Contact an Occupational Hygienist or similar qualified/skilled professional to assist with measurement or estimation of contaminant levels. The assessed levels of contaminants, taking into account peak levels, can then be used to determine the required protection both on a routine basis and for emergencies. You can find an Occupational Hygiene Consultant in the following organisation’s directory:
- Australian Institute of Occupational Hygienists (AIOH) Register
- Health & Safety Association New Zealand (HASANZ) Register
- International Occupational Hygiene Member Associations
Reference/s for further information and detail:
- AS/NZS 1715:2009 – Selection, use and maintenance – Section 4.2.2.3
- SA/SNZ TS ISO 16975.1:2023 – Selection, use and maintenance – Section 7.3.2 and Annex C
