Monitoring concentrations of select metals in workplace smelter airborne particulates using a Grimm 1.109 Real-time Portable Aerosol Spectrometer

Particulates containing hazardous metals and metal fumes are common in the metal smelting industry, posing adverse health risks to workers. This study aimed to correlate the concentrations of select metals in respirable, PM10, and total dust samples with readings from a Grimm 1.109 aerosol measuring instrument. Sixteen sampling events were conducted, collecting three types of samples during each event. The metals of interest were cadmium, arsenic, lead, and copper, analyzed via laboratory methods. Results indicated that applying correction factors to the Grimm 1.109 measurements allowed for accurate determination of metal concentrations, aligning with laboratory analysis. However, further sampling is recommended to include process variables such as feedstock metal concentrations and operational parameters for improved accuracy in linear regression models. The statistical models demonstrated that using metal-specific correction factors is a viable methodology to assess metal concentrations in a smelter environment, meeting accepted statistical criteria. This research contributes valuable insights for enhancing workplace safety and monitoring practices in the metal smelting industry.