The occupational limit values describe the maximum permitted exposure to a substance at the workplace. This is based on regular contact over a 40-hour working week (5 days of 8 hours each). Important safety measures at the workplace can be derived from the results obtained.


Recording occupational limit values with GSA measuring devices

With special GSA measuring devices it is possible to precisely measure harmful dust pollution in the room air. This makes it possible to immediately check compliance with the currently applicable occupational limit values for certain dust fractions.

The GSA measuring devices SG10-2 is ideally suited for particle measurements of the dust fraction A-dust. Depending on the application requirements, it can be used as a stationary or mobile device worn by persons to determine the air pollution with A-dust.

With our GSA PM4-2 sampling device, in addition to particle measurements of the A-dust (fine dust) fraction, it is also possible to sample the total dust fraction, the E-dust. This is ideal for measuring the dust load in indoor air. It has a particularly large sample volume for this purpose.

How can “dusts” be distinguished?

Dust is defined as a collective term that describes solid particles dispersed in the air. A distinction is made between the dust fractions A-dust (formerly known as fine dust) and E-dust (formerly known as total dust). The distinguishing feature is the particle size and the associated range into the lungs.

E-dust, or inhalable dust, has a particle size of approx. 35µm and can be inhaled through the mouth and nose.

In contrast, A-dust, or respirable dust, is at 10µm and therefore penetrates deeper into the lungs.

This is where the problem lies: dust particles can cause irritation and inflammation in the lungs, which can lead to scarring of the lung tissue. This then leads to long-term damage, such as pneumoconiosis.

Current workplace limit values for A-dust and E-dust

The current limit values are 1.25 mg/m³ for the A-dust fraction (with an average density of 2.5 g/cm³) and 10 mg/m³ for the E-dust fraction. Although this value has applied since 2014, there have been numerous exceptions to date. They allowed limit values of 3mg/m³.

From 01.01.2019, the occupational limit value of 1.25mg/m³ is binding and is no longer subject to any exceptions. This marks the end of the transitional period for compliance with the limit values. This change provides an opportunity to review the existing protective measures and optimize them if necessary.

The “STOP principle” applies to the protective measures to be checked:

Action should be taken according to the STOP principle:

S: Substitution; can the substance used be replaced by a less dusty one?

T: Technical measures; extraction system, ventilation, or similar (if substitution is not possible)

O: Organizational measures; (if first mentioned measures are not applicable or sufficient)

P: Personal protective equipment; should be used as a last resort