Biological Monitoring

Biological monitoring is a way of assessing chemical exposures by measuring the chemical or its breakdown products in a biological sample (usually urine, blood or breath). Biological monitoring is particularly useful where chemicals can be significantly absorbed through the skin and where controls rely upon the use of personal protective equipment, such as gloves and masks. In some circumstances biological monitoring is prescribed by law, eg exposure to lead.

Why do Biological Monitoring?

Biological monitoring has a number of roles in exposure assessment. Regular monitoring of your employees who are exposed to hazardous substances is advised for the following reasons;

• To check that control measures are working
• To check that work practices are protective
• To check that training is understood and followed

Employers’ Duties

Under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (as amended) employers must prevent or control exposure to substances harmful to health. This includes the use, where necessary, of biological monitoring methods.

Under the Control of Lead at Work Regulations 2002, employers must use biological monitoring to assess significant exposure to lead.

Employers must obtain consent from employees before carrying out biological monitoring.