The University of Kentucky is committed to providing work, study, research, and residential environments that are free from recognized hazards. To support this commitment, a comprehensive Industrial Hygiene Monitoring Program is in place to evaluate and control environmental factors that may affect the health and safety of our campus community.
Industrial Hygiene Monitoring at the University of Kentucky
Commitment to Health and Safety
Purpose of Industrial Hygiene Monitoring
The goal of the monitoring program is to:
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Identify and evaluate chemical, physical, and biological hazards.
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Ensure compliance with OSHA, CDC, EPA, and other regulatory standards.
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Promote a safe and healthy environment for faculty, staff, students, and visitors.
What We Monitor
Industrial hygiene monitoring activities may include assessments of:
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Airborne contaminants (e.g., dust, vapors, gases, fumes)
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Noise levels in high-decibel environments
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Heat stress and temperature extremes
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Biological agents in research and clinical settings
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Ventilation performance in laboratories and clean rooms
Monitoring Methods
The Industrial Hygiene Team uses a variety of scientifically validated methods, including:
Air Sampling Methods: Personal and Area Monitoring
This method is used to evaluate airborne contaminants in the workplace. Personal and area air sampling are common approaches for measuring employee exposure levels. Sampling media typically include passive badges or active sampling using air pumps, depending on the type of contaminant and the sampling objective.
Direct-Reading Monitoring
Direct-reading instruments are used to measure environmental conditions in real time, providing immediate data on airborne contaminants. These tools offer a snapshot of exposure levels at a specific moment and location. They are especially useful for initial surveys or screening evaluations, particularly when potential hazards are unknown to occupants.
Noise Monitoring: Dosimetry and Direct-Reading Methods
Noise monitoring is used to assess an employee’s exposure to sound levels in the workplace. Two common methods are employed: real-time measurements using a sound level meter (direct-reading), and cumulative exposure assessments using a noise dosimeter (dosimetry). These instruments help determine compliance with occupational noise exposure limits and guide the implementation of hearing conservation measures.
Indoor Air Quality Testing
Indoor air quality monitoring is typically conducted during initial surveys, especially when potential hazards are unknown to building occupants. Direct-reading instruments are commonly used in these assessments to quickly identify the presence of airborne contaminants such as carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and particulate matter.
Surface Sampling: Environmental Swabs and Microbiological Analysis
Surface sampling using environmental swabs is employed to identify visible or suspected microbiological contamination on surfaces. While this method can confirm the presence of organisms such as mold or bacteria, it is not commonly used by Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) teams. Current best practices typically recommend prompt removal or remediation of visible contamination, as sampling does not prevent ongoing growth or exposure.
Who Performs the Monitoring?
Monitoring is conducted by trained professionals in the University of Kentucky’s OHS department.
Request Monitoring
If you suspect a hazardous condition or would like to request an assessment in your area, please contact the Industrial Hygiene team at:
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Email: ohs@uky.edu
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Online Request Form: Coming soon