Personal Exposure to Volatile Organics and Other Compounds Indoors and Outdoors - The TEAM (Total Exposure Assessment Methodology) Study

摘要

The major objective of this study is to develop and field test a methodology for measuring individual human exposure to toxic substances. A secondary objective is to develop methods for estimating body burden with the use of biological measurements. All significant pathways of exposure are addressed. In Phase 1 of the study, sampling and analytical protocols were tested for volatile organic compounds, organochlorine pesticides, metals, and polyaromatic hydrocarbons. In Phase 2, exposure through air and drinking water and excretion rates through inhaled breath were measured for a statistically valid sample population. It was determined that personal air median concentrations ranged from 40 to 320% higher than outdoor fixed air concentrations. Correlations between personal and outdoor samples were poor. It was concluded that personal air, indoor air, or breath measurements are far superior to outdoor measurements for estimating exposure. The study is currently entering its third phase.