Can diesel fume monitoring be done during normal operations?

Yes, and in fact, that’s the best time to do it. Diesel fume monitoring should be carried out during normal working operations to get an accurate picture of real exposure levels. Measuring during routine tasks—when engines are running, staff are moving around, and ventilation systems are in use—gives you the clearest indication of what workers are actually breathing in.

If you try to monitor in a "cleaned-up" or staged environment, you'll likely underestimate the risk. That’s why workplace exposure assessments are usually done over a typical 8-hour shift, capturing the highs and lows throughout the day.

The goal is to understand actual exposure and assess whether existing controls are working or need improvement. So yes—monitor during the normal grind.