What types of samples can be analysed in an occupational hygiene laboratory?

Occupational hygiene laboratories deal with quite a wide range of sample types, depending on what’s being assessed. The most common are air samples—these are collected on filters or tubes to measure things like dust, fibres (such as asbestos), or chemical vapours.

You’ll also see surface samples, like swabs or tape lifts. These are often used to check for contamination on desks, equipment, or ventilation systems. Bulk samples are another category—these are physical pieces of material, such as insulation, coatings, or debris, tested to identify hazardous content.

In some cases, labs analyse water samples or settled dust to understand longer-term exposure risks. For example, dust that’s built up over time can tell a slightly different story compared to a short-term air test.

The key thing is that each sample type gives a different perspective. So, a good investigation often uses a mix of them rather than relying on just one.