Ongoing Monitoring
Because site activities and weather conditions change, an ongoing air monitoring program should be implemented after characterization has determined that the site is safe for the commencement of operations.
- The ongoing monitoring of atmospheric chemical hazards should be conducted using a combination of stationary sampling equipment, personnel monitoring devices, and periodic area monitoring with direct-reading instruments. We'll cover more on air monitoring later in the course.
- Data obtained during off-site and On-Site Surveys can be used to develop a plan that details the procedures to be used for monitoring ambient conditions during cleanup operations. Where necessary, routes of exposure other than inhalation should be monitored.
- For example, skin swipe tests may be used to determine the effectiveness of personal protective clothing. Depending on the physical properties and toxicity of the on-site materials, community exposures resulting from hazardous waste site operations may need to be assessed.
Monitoring also includes continual evaluation of any changes in site conditions or work activities that could affect worker safety. When a significant change occurs, the hazards should be reassessed. Some indicators of the need for reassessment are:
- commencement of a new work phase, such as the start of drum sampling
- change in job tasks during a work phase
- change of season
- change in weather
- change in ambient levels of contaminants
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
3-6. What is an indicator for the need to reassess hazards?
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