Biological Monitoring of Isocyanates
Biological Monitoring of Isocyanates
Exposure to Isocyanate should be as low as reasonably practicable. This includes people working nearby. Urine tests detect levels of exposure that are well below workplace exposure limits.
In addition to the UKAS accredited analysis of Isocyanates in air according to MDHS 25/3
Scientific Analysis Laboratories provide the analysis of Isocyanate metabolites in urine
according to the Health and Safety Laboratories guidance methodology.
The benefits of Biological monitoring is that it is relatively simple and inexpensive and
determines how much isocyanate has entered into a persons body which can assist in
providing a more complete picture of how effective the control measures in the workplace
are compared to air monitoring alone. Urine samples should be collected immediately the
task has finished. In October 2005 the HSE endorsed a Biological Guidance Value of 1umol
Isocyanate-derived diamine / mol creatinine.
The standard cost of this analysis is 45 pounds per sample based on analysis within 10 working
days and is inclusive of creatinine correction and the supply of a collection kit including
urine bottle, pre-paid self addressed envolope and consent form.
For further advice, information or a quotation call +44 (0)161 874 2400 and ask to speak to Duncan Campbell.