O1: Research Roundup Aerosols and Airborne Particulates/ Big Data and Sensor Technologies

The 30-year debate on in situ real-time testing for airborne asbestos continues. Our laboratory was engaged by regulators to help design and execute validation studies based on international standards of two asbestos analyzers. Each analyzer used proprietary methods of real-time particle identification using laser light scattering. The ultimate objective is to find a technology and method to alert workers and nearby populations of elevated levels of airborne asbestos disturbed from remediation activities at a Superfund site. International standards organizations and the regulatory and accreditation providers in the U.S. have not accepted these instruments as advertised. Though the application of some analyzers may have limited merit in certain situations, the basic tenets of controlled independent studies that are essential for ISO and ASTM (and others) that meet repeatable, reproducible, and effective statistical accuracy/bias requirements are generally lacking. 

Ensuring accurate quality assurance and quality control (QAQC) of stationary air monitoring data is essential for effective risk management. This session will introduce a groundbreaking QAQC data automation tool tailor-made for OEHS professionals. The tool streamlines data validation by: 1) automating the QAQC process; 2) eliminating tedious manual tasks; and 3) reducing the likelihood of human errors. It converts raw air monitoring data into clear, actionable reports, highlighting key metrics such as action level exceedances, peak values, and average concentrations. Removing anomalies like pump blocks, sensor drifts, and calibration errors, the tool enhances data integrity, leading to more reliable results. Additionally, the session will explore real-time monitoring capabilities, offering insights into how immediate data summarization supports faster hazard assessments and exposure control. Attendees will walk away with strategies for selecting air monitoring methods and deploying sensors to optimize risk management efforts. Don't miss this opportunity to learn how cutting-edge automation technology can revolutionize data-handling processes and improve air quality management outcomes.