Biological analysis

What is biological monitoring?

Biological monitoring provides a way of assessing a person’s exposure to a chemical(s) in the workplace, usually via blood or urine. It involves testing for the chemical, often via breakdown products as the body metabolises the chemical. While urinalysis is a non-invasive method of monitoring, with samples being taken by the employee blood testing needs to be undertaken by a medical professional as it is more invasive.

Biological monitoring can help confirm to employers that the existing control measures they have in place, are adequate. It can also demonstrate where additional preventative steps and controls need are needed, where chemical exposure can result from inadequate equipment, incorrect use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) or changes in work processes.

RPS has extensive experience in the analysis of chemicals in biological samples, supported by our in-house Occupational Health teams.