Abstract

Environmental monitoring (EM) and biological monitoring (BM) are complementary means for evaluating occupational exposure. A recent study suggests that there is generally a need to promote EM for exposures involving small variations in ambient concentrations of contaminants, while the use of BM would be more appropriate for larger variations. The objective of this study is to develop a BM strategy guide and computer-based tools mainly for calculating the number of samples required in relation to the biological variability of the indicators. These tools will allow professionals to choose the best strategy for evaluating worker exposure. The knowledge thus acquired will also be used to improve the content of the IRSST’s Guide de surveillance biologique (biological monitoring guide). This study is cofunded by the IRSST and the French Agency for Environmental and Occupational Health Safety (AFSSET).