Workplace exposure to heavy metals poses a significant health risk and requires accurate monitoring. SEEF carries out these measurements using MCE (Mixed Cellulose Ester) filters, which are specifically suited to the sampling of metal particles in air. By collecting air samples in the breathing zone of workers, it can be determined whether exposure remains within the established limit values.
How is exposure to metals measured? #
Exposure measurements for heavy metals use personal and stationary air sampling:
- Personal measurements: Air samples are collected in the breathing zone of workers using a Casella or Gilian air pump.
- Stationary measurements: Measurement setups at strategic locations in the working environment record the general concentration of heavy metals.
The air is filtered through an MCE filter, which is subsequently analysed in the laboratory to determine the concentrations of metals such as lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), nickel (Ni), chromium (Cr), and other potentially hazardous metals.
Why MCE filters? #
MCE filters are the preferred choice for metal sampling because they:
- Provide high efficiency in capturing fine metal particles.
- Are compatible with ICP-MS (Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry), the analytical technique used in SEEF’s own laboratory. SEEF uses the latest Agilent ICP-MS instrument, combined with the Multiwave 500 from Anton Paar for microwave digestion and Merck Millipore Ultra Pure water for dilution. This ensures highly accurate and reproducible analyses of heavy metals in air samples.
- Contain no interfering background contamination, making them suitable for quantitative measurements.
Standards for exposure measurements #
SEEF carries out exposure measurements in accordance with internationally recognised standards:
- NEN-EN 689: Assessment of exposure to chemical agents by inhalation.
- NIOSH 7300: Method for the determination of metals in air by ICP-MS.
- ISO 15202: Analysis of metals and metalloid compounds in workplace air.
Legal regulations in the Netherlands #
Working Conditions Act (Arbowet) #
The Arbowet places a general obligation on employers to prevent risks from hazardous substances as far as possible or, where this is not achievable, to reduce them to a minimum. Employers must demonstrably provide safe working conditions and take appropriate measures to protect the health of their workers.
Working Conditions Decree (Arbeidsomstandighedenbesluit) #
The Working Conditions Decree sets limit values for exposure to hazardous substances. The following limit values apply to several commonly encountered metals:
| Element | Grenswaarde (µg/m³) | Type grenswaarde |
|---|---|---|
| Chromium-6 (Cr(VI)) | 1 | Public |
| Aluminium (Al) | 3.720 | DNEL |
| Zinc (Zn) | 5.000 | DNEL |
| Lead (Pb) | 150 | Public |
| Titanium (Ti) | 10.000 | Private |
| Cadmium (Cd) | 4 | Public |
| Nickel (Ni) | 100 | Private |
| Cobalt (Co) | 20 | Public |
| Inhalable dust | 4.000 (Duitsland) | Reference |
Forthcoming legislative change #
A legislative amendment is being prepared that will further lower the occupational exposure limit for lead and the biological limit values for lead in blood:
- New occupational exposure limit: 0.03 mg/m³.
- Biological limit values for lead in blood:
- Until 2028: 30 µg/100 ml.
- After 2028: 15 µg/100 ml.
- For female workers of reproductive age: 4.5 µg lead/100 ml.
Why exposure measurements matter #
Heavy metals can cause serious health effects, including lung damage, kidney failure, and cancer. Regular exposure measurements help organisations to:
- Comply with legal limit values and occupational health requirements.
- Put effective control measures in place to minimise exposure.
- Verify the effectiveness of existing control measures and adapt them where necessary.
Conclusion #
SEEF provides accurate exposure measurements for heavy metals using MCE filters and ICP-MS analysis. These measurements enable organisations to ensure the safety of their workers and demonstrate compliance with applicable legislation.
For more information, contact SEEF:
- Email: info@seefbv.com
- Phone: +31 (0)85 047 05 74
