Session No.

533

IH Common Failure Mode Avoidance for Safety Professionals

Connie L. Muncy, CIH, REM, MS
Senior Health and Safety Administrator
AES Corporation
Dayton, Ohio

Introduction
In todays workplace paradigm of tight budgets and employer propensities toward requiring staff
to wear many hats, safety professionals may find themselves called upon to assume new
Industrial Hygiene (IH) duties, or to monitor and manage the activities of contracted Industrial
Hygienists. As such, these professionals are often times being asked to perform tasks of which
they have little knowledge or experience. Truthfully, we all have to start somewhere any many of
us have had the benefit of good mentoring to help us avoid errors in our work early in our IH
careers; but those who do not have ready access to a mentor are potentially being set up for
failure in assuming their new duties. They may be daunted by the knowledge that failure to
maintain Industrial Hygiene data quality renders data useless and may actually bring harm to
workers, to ones organization, and to ones professional reputation; and legitimately so. There
are a wide variety of common industrial hygiene error pitfalls that one may fall prey to. By
gaining an understanding of the nature of some of the most common IH errors and how to avoid
them through virtual exploration (via this unique fast-paced speed mentoring primer on
common IH failure modes, without having to suffer the consequences of empirical experiencing
of these failure modes) interested safety professionals can rapidly further optimize their IH
performance and minimize avoidable errors pending access to mentoring. As a 20-year seasoned,
cross-trained senior certified industrial hygienist/safety professional, the following appreciable
sampling of common IH failure modes I have been exposed to or witnessed over the years
grouped into the following 14 categories is proffered in the hopes of assisting those willing to
learn:
1. Defensible Data Documentation
2. Data Retention
3. Preparation to Prevent Poor Performance
4. Avoiding Aggravating Actions
5. Accounting For All Conditions That Influence Sampling Events
6. Collecting All Needed Measurements And Data
7. Avoiding Improper Sample Result Interpretation
8. Addressing Analyte Anomalies
9. Preventing Equipment Failures
10. Eliminating Interferences
11. Avoiding Actions That Invalidate Samples

12. Understanding Sampled Processes, Adjacent Or Ancillary Processes, and Environments

13. Addressing Biological Hazards
14. Acting in an Ethical Manner
One final admonitionsince much can hinge on industrial hygiene data, it would not seem
unreasonable to recommend that all IH sampling activities be conducted as if a judge and jury are
analyzing every action because at some point in ones career, this could actually occur if ones
data becomes involved in a litigious action. There can be much at stake when something goes
wrong, and updating ones philosophy to endeavor to conduct all activities as if under intense
scrutiny will provide solace under these circumstances. To this end it is recommended that
procedures be documented in a formalized, written industrial hygiene program. It is further
recommended that interested professionals also consider taking a short course on the legal
deposition process, testifying in court, or serving as an expert witness to give a full appreciation
of this piece of sage wisdom and the entirety of material presented herein. No legal advice and
promotion of no product is implied in the following information; legal counsel should be
consulted with any legal questions. The opinions of the author contained herein are just that, and
should be vetted by the reader before application to any particular situation.

Defensible Data Documentation

There is no point in wasting efforts and resources on sampling if the final outcome is destined to
be the gathering of invalidated, incomplete, erroneous, or otherwise unusable data. To this end
clear, proper data documentation is crucial and the following recommendations are provided.
The individual responsible for completing the sampling should be the same individual that
completes reporting activities. When any type of sampling is conducted, be it air sampling, wipe
sampling, bulk sampling or any other type of sampling, comprehensive information concerning
sampling activities must be documented to insure usability and validity of the sample result.
Clearly and concisely documenting things like exact sample location (perhaps even attaching a
photograph of the location), status and progression of activities during sampling as well as any
unusual occurrences, all persons present and their job titles, an exact description of the material
sampled and how sampling was conducted, calibration dates of equipment used and equipment
serial numbers, weather factors, and a litany of other important observations is critical.
Documentation of any decontamination or other actions performed between samples to rule out
cross-contamination is likewise crucial. Every individual field in the chain of custody or other
forms used should be completed, and any blanks should be filled with n/a or not applicable in
any field that is not applicable to prevent confusion, increase credibility, and deter unauthorized
addition of information into blank fields at a later date. Insure that all who take possession of the
sample sign and date the chain of custody. The chain of custody must list any sample
preservation measures taken, and for air sampling, it must note the pre-sampling pump calibration
flow rate, and the post-sampling flow rate, with representative sampling media in line, and the
difference must not exceed 5% to insure sample validity. Optimally custody seals are used on all
samples and the fact that they are used is documented. If the sampling methodology calls for field
blanks, trip blanks, and duplicate samples, these samples must be properly collected, documented
and forwarded to the lab with the other samples. The lab must have the appropriate certification
and documentation of this fact should be retained. Requesting and retaining a copy of the
laboratorys daily QA report for laboratory methods or equipment used further validates sample
results.

Data Retention
Even the very best records recording the best data become worthless if they cannot be located
when needed; and it is best that these records be located quickly when they are needed to
optimize credibility. Some OSHA standards require that the defensible data you labored so hard
to obtain be retained for a period of at least 30 years. Ignorance of the recordkeeping standards,
data purges of both electronic and hard copy data by unknowledgeable persons, failure to
properly back up data, and failure to store hard copy data in suitable conditions are pitfalls to be
heartily avoided. I heard of one case where records were ruined by termites, and others where
they were stored in damp conditions and destroyed by mildew. Laboratory analytical reports
should not be stored away alone. Instead, they should be stored as one component of a complete
packet that includes sampling report, chain of custody, and all other pertinent information that
paints a clear picture of all important aspects of the sampling activity. A single person should not
have sole control over recordkeeping; more than one person needs to understand and have access
to the recordkeeping system to insure continuity in case of turnover. To share information and at
the same time prevent unauthorized electronic data purges, you may wish to contact your IT staff
to set up a restricted-access SharePoint Library for your data with legal lock or other fool-proof
method to prevent unauthorized, premature records purges. Store hard copies in locked cabinets
or rooms but insure a second reliable party also has a key and access to the records storage area.

Preparation to Prevent Poor Performance

Arrive early to the sampling location to prepare. Secure permission for all required sampling well
in advance from the appropriate party. Make arrangements to gain access to all required areas;
this becomes particularly important in military sampling events and sampling where proprietary
or dangerous processes take place. Have a copy of the sampling protocol and the sampling
equipment manual on site with you and read it thoroughly in advance including any fine print (I
cannot stress this particular point enough); identify any conditions that would interfere with
sample validity. Before heading out for sampling, be sure all equipment has a full charge and that
sufficient batteries are available. Carry equipment in hard-sided cases; do not be tempted to place
this in your pockets. I have seen acoustic calibrators fall out of pockets and onto floors where
expensive damage occurred. Do not pinch cords inside the cases; I have also seen a thermal
anemometer damaged in this way to the extent that repair was needed. Inspect equipment to
insure all components are present and there is no damage and that plenty of calibration gas is
available where needed. Always check the expiration date on the calibration gas and do not be
tempted to use expired gas. When shipping equipment back and forth, be sure to pack all
equipment in a very secure manner to prevent damage to sensitive components, and ship by an
insured, traceable method. Take care not to lose your shipping receipt. When budgeting for a
project, be sure to budget for all required sampling equipment, preservatives, sample shipping,
sampling media and sample analysis for field blanks/trip blanks/duplicate samples, and for ample
personnel and time to complete all required sampling. A good conservative project management
rule of thumb is to add at least 20% to your estimated budget to cover any unforeseen additional
expenses that may arise (I also cannot stress this point enough). Having extra sampling media can
come in handy as well in case media becomes damaged, lost or otherwise compromised. The
media is usually relatively inexpensive, and serves as cheap insurance. Dont overlook the need
for making arrangements in advance for sample preservation after sampling is completed where
applicable. For example, in chrome plating environments, wipe samples for hexavalent chromium

taken on a PVC filter or an uncoated binderless quartz fiber filter should be placed in a vial
containing 5 mL of an aqueous solution containing 10% Na2CO3 with 2% NaHCO3 immediately
after sampling to eliminate the interference from the acid used in the chrome plating process
which may convert trivalent chromium to hexavalent chromium, yielding a falsely elevated result.
Permit employees to monitor the sampling. Always be professional and be helpful in
answering any questions the employees may have. I have heard many horror stories from
employees about rude IH technicians acting in an unprofessional manner; do not be one of them
as this behavior also damages credibility. If I could warn of only one pitfall in this section, it
would be this: set aside the appropriate amount of time to be able to remain with the sampling
equipment throughout the entire duration of the sampling event to monitor and record activities
and conditions and make sure that nothing occurs that could invalidate samples (tampering with
the equipment or the samples, accidental shut-off of the equipment, etc.). How can you support
your sampling validity if you were not even present for the entire event? This is a very common
pitfall to be avoided. Be sure to take time to calculate needed flow rates and sampling times
before air monitoring sampling events to insure adequate sample volume and prevent overloading
of sample media; last minute calculations tend to be subject to error and must sometimes be
conducted without the benefit of a calculator. Be able to confidently defend the validity of your
samples.

Avoiding Aggravating Actions

The whole point of conducting IH sampling is to improve health and safety, so be sure not to
jeopardize the health and safety of yourself or others or set a bad example while conducting
sampling activities.
Identify any applicable local, state and federal certification requirements before sampling (i.e.
asbestos, lead) so you do not break any laws or violate any regulations, and make sure you have
the appropriate certification and knowledge to protect yourself and others from exposures.
When collecting a bulk asbestos sample of friable pipe insulation, use a Wonder MakersTM
Bulk Asbestos Sampling Kit or equivalent to minimize your own as well as worker exposure to
asbestos dusts that can otherwise be generated during sampling using scraper-type sampling
tools. Fill in the hole with the sealant provided instead of simply placing duct tape over the
hole; the duct tape looks unprofessional and will likely fall off with time exposing asbestos to
the atmosphere.
Be sure the sampling equipment you are using is safe to use and has the appropriate ratings for
the atmosphere in which you are sampling. Also consider having equipment available to check
the lower explosive limit (LEL) to prevent ignition of flammable gases by your sampling
equipment.
It may be inadvisable to use sound level meters with windscreens near jet aircraft. The
windscreen itself may pose a hazard of being ingested as foreign object damage (FOD) into
aircraft engines causing dangerous equipment failure (Finger of Death is a distressingly apt
description of what this generally does to the engine). Also be cautious about using sound level
meters with windscreens in extremely windy conditions; windscreens can easily blow away and
disappear, and you may then have to purchase a replacement.
Check with the host of the area you will be sampling in to insure you have all the required PPE
and other controls in place that you will need to conduct sampling and that you are otherwise

aware of any hazards you may encounter in the area while you are preoccupied with sampling
activities (falls from heights, wall and floor holes, moving traffic, moving machinery, cranes,
unguarded equipment, etc.).
Dont set a poor example as a health and safety professional by not wearing all required PPE
during sampling events.
Understand any dangers posed by the equipment you are using; for example, insure you have
the appropriate training before exposing yourself or others to ionizing radiation when using an
X-ray Fluorescence Spectrometer.

Accounting for All Conditions That Influence Sampling Events

Below are presented a few random tips to illustrate the research that must be done to insure all
contributory conditions are accounted for before sampling so analytical results may be valid and
interpreted properly.
Caution should be exercised in using hand-held detectors to make sure all locations potentially
impacted are assessed. For example, striations in elevations at which gases may collect vary
due to different molecular weights (hydrogen gas will tend to rise, while SF 6 will tend to sink).
Some debate exists as to whether personal air samples taken during welding should be collected
as per usual or whether they should be collected under the welders mask to more realistically
characterize exposure, in which case a special adapter and a smaller cartridge may be needed.
In either case, work with the appropriate parties to make the determination in advance and gain
agreement by all parties on the method to be used; also secure welding helmet adapters if
needed for sampling under the helmet.
When conducting air sampling outdoors, weather conditions must be anticipated in conducting
sampling and interpreting sample results. Consider operators that occupy small boats used to
assemble and move floating bridges. The boats are periodically operated under high torque and
slow speeds to move the weighty components; under these conditions they tend to emit
substantial amounts of thick black diesel exhaust. Workers on the deck of the boat complain of
ongoing inhalation of the carcinogenic diesel exhaust. Personal air monitoring results obtained
on a still day with a temperature inversion holding contaminants in place may be very different
than results obtained when the boat is heading into a strong headwind that is readily dispersing
contaminants. Consider atmospheric considerations, and always consider the worst-case
scenario that workers may be exposed to when sampling.
Take time to interview and really listen to the exposed personnel before sampling; be sure to
explore their thoughts and input before sampling to get a clear and accurate understanding of
conditions under which they actually operate and exposure potential.
Do not forget to account for possible toxic byproducts created during a process; some of these
byproducts are surprising and may be highly toxic. Learn about the process and read the fine
print on Safety Data Sheets. Examples are endless: the contamination of mineral oil transformer
oil with furans in the electric industry; the formation of ozone and nitrous oxide during
welding; creation of ozone during electrolytic processes such as electroplating, generation of
highly toxic dibenzodioxins and diobenzofurans when heating PCB-containing material, and
the generation of phosgene gas when heating surfaces contaminated with chlorinated solvents.
You cant know everything there is to know, but you can take time to carefully research any
unfamiliar processes.

 When conducting noise dosimetry dont forget to also check on workplace or non-occupational
exposure to ototoxins (chemicals that damage hearing without regard to noise exposure
including a plethora of over the counter drugs, prescription pharmaceuticals, and pesticides;
lead; carbon monoxide; etc.) They too may cause hearing loss and need to be taken into
consideration.
Radiofrequency electromagnetic fields can interfere with the proper operation of industrial
hygiene instruments. This interference is called electromagnetic susceptibility (EMS).
Determine if there is a potential for such interference. Likely sources of radio frequency
interference are walkie-talkies, vehicles equipped with mobile radio transmitters, RF heat
sealers, and more. If there is a potential for such interference, select sampling instruments that
are properly rated for EMS to avoid faulty data or malfunction.

Collecting All Needed Measurements and Data

For ventilation surveys, prepare in advance, have the appropriate figure from the ACGIH
Ventilation Manual or other appropriate resource, and be certain to READ THE FINE PRINT
and obtain all necessary measurements and data while still on site. Failure to READ THE FINE
PRINT is a common and unfortunate failure mode that often results in mischaracterization or
incomplete characterization of hazards. Case in point: kitchen hoods, pesticide sinks, and
vehicle garage ventilation. Having to return to sampling sites to gather forgotten measurements
and data has a tendency to lessen ones credibility and decreases ones productivity. Also, dont
forget to bring the tape measure when needed; borrowing equipment from the customer
(internal or external) also does not tend to enhance credibility.
When appropriate, be sure to collect a sufficient number of readings to be statistically
significant (often the recommended number is six readings)
OSHA expanded standards tell the number of employees that must be sampled; be sure to
collect the required number of samples to insure compliance.
In addition to collecting personal air samples, when appropriate also collect wipe samples of
any lunchroom or other surfaces where skin contamination and ingestion hazards are important
factors (electroplating operations, welding operations).
Consider all exposure routes, not just inhalation. One interesting example: boat riders
frequently fell into water heavily contaminated with diesel fuel and became coated with and
even swallowed this water frequently. Conducting personal air sampling would not account for
ingestion and skin hazards that may be significant exposures indeed.

Avoiding Improper Sample Result Interpretation

Always use current occupational exposure levels (OELs) for interpretation of sample results.
Be sure all parties are in agreement of the OELs used before sampling commences; i.e. OSHA
PELs, NIOSH RELs, ACGIH TLVs, or the most conservative of these three; OELs from
foreign countries; or military OELs. Be aware that OSHA PELs may take into account
political, economic, and other considerations and are not established totally based on science.
Be prepared to collect ceiling limit samples and short-term exposure limit samples where
appropriate.
When sampling air contaminants, be aware of any additional exposures to similar air
contaminants that could compound the effect of the air contaminant sampled for and properly
account for the combined effects (e.g. additive, synergistic effects).

 Account for confidence limits; e.g., if the PEL is 5 mg/m3 and the sample result is 4.8 mg/m3,
is regulatory compliance truly demonstrated? Confidence limits are values at each end of
the confidence interval, which is the probable range of the true value (for a full explanation
see https://www.osha.gov/dts/osta/otm/otm_ii/otm_ii_1.html ).
When sampling for longer than 10 hours, use prescribed OSHA formulas to adjust OELs for
lead and noise. For unusual work schedules, ACGIH refers to the Brief and Scala model to
reduce the TLV proportionately for both increased exposure time and reduced recovery (nonexposure) time
When ascertaining whether the NRR of existing hearing protection PPE is adequate protection
based on measured noise levels and noise dosimetry, be certain to de-rate hearing protection
based on the OSHA or NIOSH method and properly calculate noise reduction ratings of dual
hearing protection when used.

Addressing Analyte Anomalies

This is perhaps the most difficult failure mode to address. Sometimes you are thrown a curve that
is unforeseeable, or are unaware of obscure information that would be helpful to know. The best
overall advice I can provide on this point is take extra time to conduct research processes and
hazards as your time permits; the Internet is a wonderful source of obscure information if you
know how to search for it.
When sampling for wood dust, be sure to make the distinction what TYPE of wood dust is
being sampled; OELs for different types of wood dust may vary. Also be aware of any
preservatives of concern the wood may have been treated with and take that information into
consideration when formulating a sampling plan.
Be wary of any SDS that proclaims proprietary ingredients, particularly when unexplained
symptoms continue to crop up. I once had a group of sick welders dealing with a coating the
MSDS listed as non-hazardous with proprietary ingredients. Pressing the manufacturer
further, it turned out the proprietary ingredients were actually hazardous ingredients.
Analytes originally present in trace or negligible amounts may concentrate depending on the
process, making them present in non-trace amounts. Example: coal dust, fly ash and bottom ash
contain trace amounts of arsenic, beryllium, cadmium, chromium, manganese, and more.
However, these trace amounts become concentrated in air pollution control equipment which
by design pulls them from the air and concentrates them in filters, electrostatic precipitators,
etc. sometimes creating a pronounced exposure hazard. I am aware of one excellent study that
clearly and credibly documents this fact.
Conducting personal air monitoring for welding can take a great deal of thoughtfulness and
research. When evaluating welding operations, be sure to rule out the presence of any asbestos
welding rod, and thoriated welding rod (potential ionizing radiation hazard upon repeated
grinding of tips combined with poor housekeeping); you may genuinely still find these in use.
Also be certain to evaluate all constituents of the substrate metal, generated by-products,
welding rod, and any metal coatings, fluxes or cleaning compounds used on the metals. For
example: cadmium is a rust preventive, galvanized metal contains zinc, beryllium has an
exceeding low ACGIH TLV and can may be contained in copper and other metal alloys, iron
oxide may seem benign but causes siderosis, mercury compounds are used to coat metals to
prevent rust or inhibit foliage growth (marine paints), metal surfaces may be painted with
lead/cadmium/ chromium/PCB-containing coatings, fluoride compounds are found in the

coatings of several types of fluxes used in welding, various chlorinated hydrocarbons are used
in degreasing or other cleaning operations are a concern because the heat and ultraviolet
radiation from the arc will decompose the vapors and form highly toxic and irritating phosgene
gas, welding and cutting may produce significant amounts of carbon monoxide, ozone is
produced by ultraviolet light from the welding arc, and the ultraviolet light of the arc can
produce nitrogen oxides.

Preventing Equipment Failures

Dont let a simple, preventable equipment failure derail your sampling event and damage your
credibility. Never sample with equipment that is out of calibration.
If your equipment is out of calibration when returned to the manufacturer for annual
calibration, more frequent calibration is recommended to maintain data integrity between
calibrations.
Read the fine print in the instrument operators manual and insure that actual conditions do not
exceed abilities of instrument (for example, sound level meters may not function properly under
conditions of high humidity and in the presence of radiofrequency non-ionizing radiation; wind
screens are required for windy conditions, etc.)
Daily bump tests of gas detectors are crucial and are not optional. Period.
A check of any equipment filters prior to use is necessary.
When calibrating equipment, do not use calibration gas beyond the date of expiration (one
major example: hydrogen sulfide).
Always look for oxygen first with a four-gas detector; if there is insufficient oxygen, the other
detectors may not read properly.
Photoionization Detector (PID) bulbs dim with time and may not yield accurate results.
Be sure to handle equipment carefully and transport equipment in carrying cases to prevent the
possibility of serious equipment damage that may or may not be detected and may affect
sample results.

Eliminating Interferences
When sampling, use the correct media. For example, the OSHA Hexavalent Chromium wipe
sampling protocol W4001 stipulates that when wipe samples are collected on baby wipes, paper
filters such as Whatman filters, glass fiber filters, and mixed cellulose ester filters, Cr(VI)
decomposes to trivalent chromium (Cr(III)). For this reason these samples should be collected
using PVC filters or binderless quartz fiber filters.
When taking wipe samples, one pair of gloves per sample taken should be used to avoid cross
contamination of samples. Bring plenty of sampling gloves and dont forget your template.
During indoor air quality testing, chemical products located in the subject building should be
documented to account for potential contributions from these chemicals.
Many of the direct-reading instruments that have been designed to detect one particular
substance also detect other substances and, consequently, may give false readings. For example,
when using direct-reading carbon monoxide monitors, a CO-specific filter must be used
because significant interferences can be encountered from ethylene, acetylene, hydrogen,
hydrogen sulfide, nitrogen dioxide, nitric oxide, and sulfur dioxide. Also many colorimetric
tubes are cross-sensitive for multiple compounds or can be hindered by certain interfering
compounds.

 Combustible Gas Indicators (CGI) may be damaged by certain compounds such as silicones,
halides, tetraethyl lead, and oxygen-enriched atmospheres and as a result provide incorrect
readings. Also CGIs do not provide valid readings under oxygen-deficient conditions.
Oxidizers, such as ozone, can affect oxygen meter readings
Flame ionization detectors (FIDs) should not be used at temperatures less than 40 degrees F.
Ultraviolet (UV) Photoionization Detector (PID)s responses are affected by high humidity
Fibrous substances, if present, may interfere with asbestos analysis:
Fiberglass
Anhydrite
Plant Fibers
Perlite Veins
Gypsum
Some Synthetic Fibers
Membrane Structures
Sponge Spicules
Diatoms
Microorganisms
Wollastonite

Avoiding Actions that Invalidate Samples

The following miscellaneous frustrating actions that invalidate samples should also be avoided.
Do not tip the cartridge/cyclone or dust may be lost from surface
Do not take sound level readings of equipment not being operated under actual conditions or on
intended substrates (i.e. turning on a saw without running wood through the saw; turning on a
pump without running water through the pump)
Do not conduct noise dosimetry on a day where compared to a normal day few noisegenerating processes are in progress; take into consideration worst-case days.
Insure that correct settings are used with sound level meters.
For taking traverses, use proper methodology; either a centerline reading times 0.9, or use the
appropriate sample point locations while inserting the probe at right angles.
Choose sampling rates for personal air sampling using tubes carefully to prevent breakthrough
that may invalidate the sample.
Take care not to hook up sampling train improperly (tubes or cartridges placed backwards in
the sampling trains-most tubes/cartridges are marked to indicate proper direction; using an open
faced cartridge when a closed face cartridge is called for, etc.)
Decontaminate sampling equipment between samples
Do not degrade equipment performance by damaging or destroying equipment through
improper use; i.e., thermal anemometer in corrosive environment
When conducting ventilation surveys in vehicle maintenance shops, be sure to note the position
of baffles on adjacent hoods, etc.
When air sampling, calibrate your pumps with separate media (not the same media you will be
using to conduct sampling, and not the media used to prepare field blanks). Do not forget to
collect field blanks, and collect the correct number indicated by the sampling protocol you are
using.

 Check experience, credentials, and satisfied customer recommendations before hiring industrial
hygiene contractors. Also take nothing for granted and observe their activities carefully asking
questions as needed. Be especially aware of obvious mistakes such as the presence of no
calibration equipment for air sampling, inadequate documentation of sampling activities, and
placement of sampling equipment and media under workers Tyvek suits.

Understanding Sampled Processes, Adjacent or Ancillary

Processes, and Environments
Also look at the surrounding environment; for example, rocks that have been repeatedly
crushed again and again during heavy equipment training may yield a significant respirable
crystalline silica hazard in addition to any other air contaminants of concern.
Found in gravel pits in the Western U.S., gravel contaminated with erionite has been
extensively excavated and used to surface local county roads, parking lots, playgrounds, and
other areas. Some properties of erionite are similar to the properties of asbestos; however,
erionite is not currently regulated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as one
of the six asbestos fibers. This may yield a significant hazard in addition to any other air
contaminants of concern.
Dusts from soil with heavy iron content such as that found on the Hawaiian Island of Oahu may
be extensively inhaled by outdoor workers during windy, dry conditions in areas of disturbed
soil (e.g. areas with heavy traffic on soil, etc.). Overexposure to iron may result in a condition
known as siderosis. This may yield a significant hazard in addition to any other air
contaminants of concern.
Areas experiencing dust storms may expose outdoor workers to a noxious mix of fungi, heavy
metals from pollution, fertilizers, stockyard fecal matter, chemicals and bacteria carried in the
dust. This may yield a significant hazard in addition to any other air contaminants of concern.
Underground workplaces can have significant levels of radon; so may any aboveground
workplaces in radon affected geographical areas. This may yield a significant hazard in addition
to any other air contaminants of concern. Be particularly cautious in assessing workplaces using
use underground levels and poorly ventilated ground floor rooms.
Consider adjacent processes; consider confined space hotwork being conducted where materials
in adjacent areas may reach the work area causing an unexpected hazard if not identified and
accounted for.
Failing to gather a clear understanding of processes by not speaking to actual end users or line
staff is foolhardy.
Not having identified all potential hazards by failing to conduct job safety analysis and
industrial hygiene risk assessment and keeping this information current is foolhardy.
Do not overlook the potential exposure to asbestos, ceramic fibers, and abrasive dusts in
automotive shops altogether. Become familiar with the OSHA requirements relating to
asbestos in automotive shops.
Missing the presence of RF generating equipment is foolhardy.
Missing sources of ionizing radiation present where none is expected is foolhardy. In one
example, Power Generation Coal moisture content detector equipment and hand-held X-Ray
Fluorescence Spectrometers may be sources of ionizing radiation.
When assessing firefighter exposure, one must analyze the entire list of what they breath in
during activities (the size of the list is unexpectedly stunning); and one must also analyze

exposures from ancillary processes (chain saw noise, hazardous waste response contaminants,
bloodborne pathogens, etc.)
There is growing concern among industrial hygienists that cases of chronic beryllium disease
(CBD) are continuing to occur among dental laboratory technicians working with dental alloys
containing beryllium; do your research before sampling.
Commercial kitchens emit an unexpectedly wide variety of very hazardous air contaminants
including:
Acrylamide
Benzo[a]pyrene
Carbon Monoxide
Formaldehyde
Nitrogen Dioxide
Particulate polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons
Particulates NOS
Again, do your research before sampling.
Indoor air pollution may expose workers to a wide variety of biological and chemical hazards
that take great research and thoughtfulness to properly assess.

Addressing Biological Hazards

It is important not to overlook illness and disease-causing biological hazards as well. Chemical
air contaminants are not the only hazard that should be examined. Some examples include:

Insect-transmitted disease such as Lyme disease and West Nile Virus.

Accumulations of dead insect parts that can cause sensitization, particularly where screens are
missing inside buildings lighted at night.
Poisonous insects (i.e. brown recluse, black widow)
Mycotoxin-forming molds
Legionella in improperly-maintained hot-water tanks, cooling towers and evaporative
condensers of large air-conditioning systems
Poisonous plants with irritant oils containing catechols and o-quinone, such as poison
ivy/sumac/nettles in the U.S. and analogs in the U.S. and in other countries that are contacted,
or smoke from these plants inhaled when plants are burned.
Hantavirus and Escherichia coli transmitted by infected rodents or their urine and droppings.
Brucella that may be transmitted by contact with certain animals, live or dead, and their dens.
Fungus; i.e. cryptococcus neoformans and histoplasma capsulatum or similar in bird
excrement that transmits disease
The wide variety of pathogens and parasites contained in sewage

Acting in an Ethical Manner

ALWAYS act in an ethical manner. Always. No exceptions. You have only one reputation and
once its gone, its gone, and your credibility is forever damaged. Take a refresher course on IH
ethics (available from the American Industrial Hygiene Association) to insure you understand
how to address any gray areas, or contact your organizations ethics officer with any questions.
In this particular area, you are always better safe than sorry. (See the words of Catherine Aird
in the Summary below).

Summary
By safely gaining an understanding of common IH errors and how to avoid them through virtual
exploration, one may avoid the tribulation of making these mistakes themselves. In support,
consider the words of Edmund Burke: "In history, a great volume is unrolled for our instruction,
drawing the materials of future wisdom from the past errors and infirmities of mankind. Also
consider the words of Catherine Aird for those who fail to embrace the words of Edmund Burke,
If you can't be a good example, then you'll just have to be a horrible warning.