What is used to monitor occupational exposure to chemicals?

• A. Absorbers and badges
• B. Thermometers
• C. Gloves only
• D. Alarm systems

Answer: (A)

Monitoring chemical exposure relies on collecting and analyzing samples of the air the worker breathes. This is done with personal badges that capture a sample over the work shift and with absorbers—air-sampling media such as sorbent tubes or cartridges used with pumps to draw air through them. After collection, the samples are analyzed in a laboratory to determine the concentration of chemicals the worker was exposed to, providing a quantitative measure of exposure over time. Thermometers only measure temperature, gloves provide protection but don’t quantify exposure, and alarm systems warn of high levels rather than document actual exposure over time.