Hexachlorobenzene. Determination in workplace air

Abstract

The aim of this study was to develop and validate a method for determining of inhalable fraction of hexachlorobenzene in workplace air. The determination method is based on the adsorption of hexachlorobenzene on a polypropylene filter, extraction with hexane and an analysis of the resulting solution with gas chromatography with electron capture detection (GC-ECD). A capillary column with HP-5 (30 m × 0.32 mm, i.d. × 0.25 μm film thickness) was used. The method is linear within the working range from 0.018 μg/ml to 0.375 μg/ml, which is equivalent to air concentrations from 0.0003 to 0.006 mg/m3 for a 120-L air sample. The analytical method described in this paper enables selective determination of analytes in workplace air in the presence of coexisting substances. The method is precise, accurate and it meets the criteria for procedures for measuring chemical agents listed in Standard No. EN 482. This method can be used for assessing occupational exposure to hexachlorobenzene and the associated risk to workers’ health. The developed method of determining hexachlorobenzene has been recorded as an analytical procedure (see appendix). This article discusses the problems of occupational safety and health, which are covered by health sciences and environmental engineering.