Industrial Hygiene Legal Consulting

Chemistry & Industrial Hygiene, Inc. practices state-of-the-art industrial hygiene and toxicology to assess exposures to chemical, microbiological, and physical agents. Our team of scientists estimates exposure magnitude and evaluates the potential consequences of exposures through assessment of fiber, particulate, or vapor-release characteristics taking into account specific associated workplace conditions, work practices, and other factors. C&IH conducts exposure assessments for historical, current, or prospective work practices and agents to a reasonable degree of scientific certainty, based on the needs of particular projects. Conclusions are drawn with integrity and presented in simple-to-understand formats.

Exposure Assessment and Exposure Reconstruction

Our staff characterizes specific workplace, work practice, and product exposures considering the chemical, physical, and biological properties associated with specific agents. To complete our retrospective assessments, we make use of relevant records, depositions, interrogatories, exposure assessment literature and databases, and other available documents to assist in our contaminant exposure evaluations. C&IH also performs on-site exposure assessments for chemical, physical, and microbiological agents, and can perform exposure assessments in our simulation study test chamber if needed. Additionally, modeling using state-of-the-art methodologies and statistical software programs can also be performed in-house for exposure assessment design, estimation, and validation. Retrospective and prospective exposure assessments may include qualitative or quantitative estimations of time-specific, location-specific, product-specific, and/or lifetime exposures, including exposure apportionment. All C&IH exposure assessments and the associated risks are evaluated based on a risk assessment paradigm utilizing sound toxicological and epidemiological principles, factoring in applicable standards, guidelines, and regulations where possible. Examples of worksite exposures that have been carefully reconstructed or extrapolated include sand blasting controls, lead enamels, lead-based paint, asbestos-cement duct and pipe, mufflers, asbestos surfacing material, pipe-insulation debris, wallpaper removal with enzymes, organic solvent-containing spray painting, and welding.

Scientific Approach

Exposures are evaluated based upon industrial hygiene, chemical, toxicological, and other scientific factors. These evaluations sometimes involve a direct analysis of the workplace or product. Relevant state-of-the-art standards and practices in effect at the time of historical exposures may also be researched. The credibility of our research is supported by the qualifications, experience, and integrity of our staff. Our team of scientists includes MS and PhD scientists, board-certified toxicologists (DABT), certified industrial hygienists (CIH), and individuals with advanced degrees in analytical chemistry, biochemistry, and microbiology. Staff members have presented and published in the fields of exposure and risk assessment, both in the United States and internationally, and hold office or are members in national, local, and international scientific organizations and committees. C&IH staff members have taught classes in retrospective exposure assessment for the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA) as well as classes in toxicology and risk assessment for University College at the University of Denver. Our staff has excellent relationships with industrial hygienists, physicians, and other scientists to further complement our efforts.

error: Content is protected !!