Video exposure monitoring for detecting worker's exposure to nanoparticles

Currently most of the instruments available to measure worker’s exposure to nanoparticles are not well suited for use as personal devices. Therefore, the combined use of static area sampling measuring devices and off-line analysis of short term personal samples are considered as an appropriate sampling strategy. In order to select sampling locations, the sources of nanoparticles should be identified and the relationship between emission and work activities should be clarified. Portable condensation particle counters (CPC) are usually used for this purpose. In this study we demonstrate the use of video exposure monitoring (VEM) technique in locating work activities associated with nanoparticle exposure. VEM equipment (in this case PIMEXPC 2006) combines video picture of the work and simultaneously measured data from the personal monitor, like portable CPC. Link between exposure calling conditions and work can be analysed with the aid of a video picture in which graphical presentation of nanoparticle concentration is superimposed. The utilization of the technique was demonstrated in the flame spray process used for coating and surface modification of materials (nHalo, hot aerosol layering operation). Worker’s exposure to nanoparticles was most often associated with adjusting the sprayer inside the enclosure. Information from video exposure measurement can be used for locating more comprehensive exposure monitoring instruments. Besides of that information, the results form video exposure monitoring helps to understand the exposure in details and it creates the possibilities for innovative preventive measures.