Weighted least-squares regression was performed to evaluate the relative relationship between the two methods. These results are consistent with recent studies in other industries, in which aerosol concentrations measured with the IOM were greater than corresponding concentrations measured using the traditional 37-mm plastic cassette. CI consists of shredded recycled newspapers with boric acid typically added as a fireproofing agent. Data are being collected, using 15 applicators from across the United States, to characterize worker exposures to CI during activities including structure preparation, installation, and clean-up. Five of the 15 site visits have been completed.
Air sampling data suggest that the extent of exposure can depend on a number of the above factors.
A misting device in-line with the application hose moistened the CI and was found to significantly reduce the total dust concentration in the attic environment. Real-time particulate data with particle size distribution indicated that a majority of the airborne particles are in the nonrespirable range. Average fiber lengths are approximately 55 micrometers. The use of respirators is recommended until effective engineering controls can be established. There are a variety of commercially available personal samplers that can be used to measure respirable dust in the workplace.