At LCS Laboratory Inc., we specialize in evaluating occupational exposure to xylene through the precise and reliable NIOSH 1501 method.
Xylene is a common industrial solvent composed of a mixture of aromatic hydrocarbons. Its versatile properties make it indispensable in manufacturing, chemical processing, and product formulation. Xylene is frequently used in paints, coatings, adhesives, degreasers, and printing inks. Prolonged exposure to xylene vapours can lead to adverse health effects, including dizziness, headaches, and long-term neurological damage, making accurate exposure monitoring essential. Xylene is prevalent across a wide range of industries, including:
- Manufacturing: Utilized in the production of rubber, leather, and plastic goods.
- Painting and Coating: Found in industrial spray paints, varnishes, and automotive refinishing.
- Petrochemical and Refinery Operations: Employed in blending fuels and synthesizing other chemicals.
- Laboratory Use: Often used as a solvent in histology and other laboratory analyses.
Occupational exposure limits for xylene differ internationally. In Ontario, Canada, the Time-Weighted Average (TWA) exposure limit for xylene is currently set at 100 ppm (as of 2024). Monitoring and maintaining exposure below this threshold is critical to ensuring worker safety and regulatory compliance.
Sampling and Analysis Using NIOSH 1501
Our laboratory offers the NIOSH 1501 method for xylene analysis, which is widely accepted as a “golden standard” for Industrial Hygiene sampling.
- Sampling Procedure: Xylene vapours are collected using CSC charcoal tubes connected to personal air sampling pumps operating at a flow rate of 0.02–0.2 L/min. To achieve optimal sensitivity, we recommend collecting an air volume between 1L and 30L.
- Sample Submission: Once sampling is complete, seal and label the tubes before shipping them to our laboratory with a completed request form.
- Analytical Method: At LCS Laboratory, xylene is extracted from the sampling media and analysed using Gas Chromatography with Flame Ionization Detection (GC-FID). Our method achieves a sensitivity of 5 µg/sample, providing reliable results for exposure assessments.
Expert Tips for Effective Sampling
- Hot and Humid Conditions: Reduce the sampling volume to prevent overloading.
- Multiple Solvents: Often your sample can also be analyzed for other solvents. Please get in touch with us if you need additional analysis of the same sample.
- Diffusive Sampling Option: Consider using diffusive samplers as a convenient, pump-free alternative for collecting xylene and similar solvents.
Why Choose LCS Laboratory?
LCS Laboratory Inc. is a professional, ISO 17025-accredited industrial hygiene laboratory with decades of experience in hazardous materials analysis. We provide top-quality air sampling equipment and media to simplify sample collection and ensure accurate results. For expert advice and reliable xylene analysis, email us today.
