Schedule for workplace air monitoring

Guidance

How Often Should Air Monitoring Be Carried Out?

There is no single answer to how often air monitoring should be done — it depends on the substance, the exposure and the stability of your controls. This guide explains the drivers.

Typical

Annual

High risk

More often

After change

Re-monitor

LEV TExT

14 months

01

Start with a baseline

A baseline survey establishes the exposure picture for each similar exposure group. The results then inform how frequently re-monitoring is needed — higher or more variable exposures warrant more frequent checks.

02

Typical intervals

For many processes, annual monitoring is a reasonable default. Where exposures are close to a limit, where the substance is a carcinogen or sensitiser, or where controls are critical, more frequent monitoring is appropriate.

03

Triggers for re-monitoring

Re-monitor after any change to the process, materials, output or controls; following an LEV failure or modification; or if health surveillance or complaints suggest a problem. LEV itself must be thoroughly examined and tested at least every 14 months.

04

Frequently asked questions

Is annual monitoring always enough?

Not necessarily — high or variable exposures, carcinogens and sensitisers, or critical controls may require more frequent monitoring.

Do we re-monitor after changing a process?

Yes — any significant change to process, materials or controls is a trigger for fresh monitoring.

Next step

Speak to an occupational hygiene consultant

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