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Development of protocols for standardised laboratory-based testing of respirable and inhalable samplers

This work aimed to develop/harmonise protocols for testing respirable and inhalable samplers in laboratory test chambers and to carry out a preliminary validation of the protocols and was undertaken in 2021. The following objectives were:

  • To develop draft protocols for testing the performance of:
    - respirable in calm air against the EN 481 and ISO 7708 conventions.
    - inhalable samplers in in calm air and in moving air against the EN 481 and ISO 7708 conventions.
  • To undertake an inter-laboratory (HSE and University of Utah) sampler comparison study using procedures set out in these draft protocols.
  • To deliver a web-based workshop with international experts, to share and discuss the protocols and the inter-laboratory
    comparison study test results.
  • A document was drafted, which collated:
    * the draft protocols;
    * the results of the inter-laboratory comparison study that were shared at the workshop;
    * and the feedback received from the experts present at the workshop.

In summary, draft protocols have been drafted with valuable input gathered from the workshop. The absence of prescriptive protocols for testing respirable and inhalable samplers can potentially result in different outcomes. Differences in results have been observed between Lab 1 and Lab 2. However, this was a very limited inter-comparison exercise involving just two laboratories using different test chambers, configurations and instruments. Therefore, there is a need for further harmonisation of the protocols and conducting larger-scale laboratory intercomparisons. An improved reference probe is also needed for the testing of inhalable samplers in calm air  conditions, especially in preparation for upcoming convention changes that will require such testing.

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