PERSONAL MONITORING OF BENZENE IN PERTH, WESTERN AUSTRALIA: RESULTS OF A PILOT TRIAL

摘要

As part of a larger study co-ordinated in four cities by the Western Australian Department of Environmental Protection to characterise non- industrial personal exposure to Benzene, Toluene, Ethylbenzene and Xylene (BTEX), a pilot trial was conducted in Perth, Western Australia. The objectives of the pilot trial were to assess the use of passive samplers in the measurement of BTEX at a range of concentrations over 24 hours, evaluate the ease of use of a self administered questionnaire and a time/ activity diary, and to trial the logistics of conducting a personal exposure study. The results of the pilot trial indicated the questionnaire and diary effectively revealed potential lifestyle and behavioural factors that influence personal exposure to benzene. The BTEX samplers also proved effective in measuring a range of benzene concentrations, and did not limit the behaviours or activities of the participants whilst being worn.