Ultrafine particle emissions and exposure measurement in South Australian workplaces: A pilot study

There are no generic occupational exposure standards for ambient ultrafine particles (UFPs), and generally there is a shortage of relevant exposure data. The aim of this pilot study was to assess UFP air concentrations in a range of industrial and commercial workplaces in South Australia. A TSI P-Trak Ultrafine Particle Counter was used to measure UFP levels, as well as breathing zone concentrations during selected tasks. Number concentrations in excess of a maximum of 100,000 particulates per cubic centimetre were observed during foundry operations, office work, heavy diesel vehicle maintenance work, and welding/grinding processes. The results demonstrate elevated exposures with certain tasks/equipment compared with background levels. However, background levels in one central business district building appeared to follow peak vehicle traffic patterns. More detailed exposure studies, coupled with health surveys, are recommended. Owing to the increasing evidence for health impact, there is a need to develop suitable regulatory guidelines and exposure standards for UFPs.