Protect your workplace and employees by identifying surface contamination with Polynuclear Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) using expert wipe sampling and analysis from LCS Laboratory Inc. PAHs are a group of hazardous aromatic compounds, many of which are classified as carcinogens and strictly regulated.
PAH wipe sampling is a critical tool for industrial hygienists investigating contamination in the asphalt industry, coal tar production, and fire investigations. By identifying and quantifying PAHs on non-porous surfaces, employers can ensure compliance with safety standards and safeguard workers from potential health risks.
Technical Details of PAH Sampling and Analysis
Polynuclear Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) are aromatic compounds with 2 to 5 aromatic rings. Of the hundreds of PAHs, 16 have been prioritized by the EPA for their significant presence in coal tar and their potential health risks:
- Naphthalene [91-20-3]
- Acenaphthylene [208-96-8]
- Acenaphthene [83-32-9]
- Fluorene [86-73-7]
- Phenanthrene [85-01-8]
- Anthracene [120-12-7]
- Fluoranthene [206-44-0]
- Pyrene [129-00-0]
- Benz[a]anthracene [56-55-3]
- Chrysene [218-01-9]
- Benzo[b]fluoranthene [205-99-2]
- Benzo[k]fluoranthene [207-08-9]
- Benzo[a]pyrene [50-32-8]
- Dibenz[a,h]anthracene [215-58-7]
- Benzo[ghi]perylene [191-24-2]
- Indeno[1,2,3-cd]pyrene [193-39-5]
LCS Laboratory Inc. employs High-Performance Liquid Chromatography with UV detection (HPLC UV) to identify and quantify these PAHs. The analytical process is based on the NIOSH 5506 method, with adaptations for surface wipe sampling.
Sample Collection Guidelines:
- Collect samples from non-porous surfaces (e.g., glass, stainless steel, ceramic) using wipe sampling over an area of 100 cm².
- Wear gloves to protect samples from skin oils that may cause false positive results.
- 25 mm paper filters with a 70% solution of isopropanol are ideal for capturing oily residues. Alternatively, cotton gauze can be used
- Protect samples from direct light and ship them in glass containers.
- Please remember to provide a blank QC sample for control of cross-contamination
Benefits of Working with a Canadian Laboratory
Choosing LCS Laboratory Inc. ensures fast turnaround times, precise methodologies, and a deep understanding of Canadian safety standards. As an ISO 17025-accredited laboratory based in Canada, we are well-positioned to support the Canadian health and safety community with services tailored to national regulations and industry requirements.
Contact Us Today
For assistance with your project or to schedule PAH testing, reach out to LCS Laboratory Inc. by email. Our team is here to help you achieve compliance and maintain a safe work environment.
